GCC aims to plant 12 lakh saplings to increase green cover
The Greater Chennai Corporation has already planted over 1 lakh saplings across 15 zones in the city over the last five months.
The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has set a target to plant 12 lakh saplings across Chennai to expand the city's green cover, according to the Deccan Chronicle.
GCC Commissioner G.S. Sameeran said the corporation has already planted and maintained 1,04,650 saplings during the past five months.
The planting drive has been intensified in all 15 zones following a directive from the Chief Minister.
To meet the target, the corporation is using saplings from the forest department and private nurseries, alongside those raised at GCC nurseries in Mylapore, Madambakkam, and Myladies Park.
Plantation activities are taking place in 417 Chennai schools, 993 parks, playgrounds, lakes, ponds, burial grounds, and vacant lands.
The drive also includes coastal stretches such as Marina, Palavakkam, and Thiruvanmiyur beaches, as well as reclaimed areas at the Perungudi and Kodungaiyur dumping grounds.
Commissioner Sameeran stated that the GCC is distributing saplings to assist volunteers, non-governmental organisations, and resident welfare associations in their local plantation efforts.