Hans News Service Guntur

TheGuntur Municipal Corporation has launched a massive plantation drive covering over 40 km of road dividers in two phases to enhance the city’s green cover, improve air quality and make Guntur a greener and more beautiful city, GMC commissioner K Mayur Ashok said.

He said the initiative aims to improve environmental balance and bring national-level recognition to Guntur. Plantation works are being taken up over 25 km in the first phase and the remaining 15 km in the second phase.

He said the existing plants were being trimmed attractively, while shrub plantation works were being carried out and monitored regularly.

The project is being implemented scientifically, with plants selected in consultation with experts from the AP Green Corporation. Special care has been taken to choose varieties that can withstand Guntur’s summer temperatures, require less water and are less likely to be damaged by animals.

The old soil in the road dividers is being completely removed and replaced with quality red soil and suitable fertilisers to ensure healthy plant growth. The project is estimated to cost between Rs 5 crore and Rs 6 crore.

The contractors concerned will be responsible for maintaining the plants for two years as part of the contract conditions. The GMC will also install signboards displaying details of the plants, contractors and concerned officials.