Pawan Kalyan’s Approach is to Balance Nature, People and Development

Andhra Pradesh is developing urban forests and eco-tourism projects by integrating environmental conservation, local employment and tourism development, AP Green Executive Committee Chairman Nagababu said. On Tuesday, six urban forests and three eco-tourism projects were virtually inaugurated from Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan’s camp office in Mangalagiri. The urban forests developed across 304.60 hectares in Bapatla, Chirala, Kotappakonda, Vinukonda, Piduguralla and Macherla are designed to provide green spaces, cleaner air and a healthier environment for people in rapidly expanding urban areas.

Nagababu said projects such as the Nallamala Jungle Safari in Velugodu, a trekking route and the Aroma Canopy Walk in Maredumilli are expected to add new attractions to eco-tourism in the state. The Velugodu Jungle Safari is expected to provide direct employment to more than 80 rural families while offering visitors opportunities to experience the biodiversity of the Nallamala forests. In Maredumilli, tribal youth will work as trekking guides, introducing visitors to the region’s natural beauty, biodiversity and tribal culture. An elevated coffee canopy walk, coffee cafe and bird nest have also been developed at a cost of Rs 1 crore. The projects aim to promote tourism while protecting forests and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.