AP adds 2,234 acres of green cover across industries in three months

Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh has added 2,234.15 acres of greenbelt across industrial premises in just three months, taking the total green cover within 2,913 industrial units to 27,384.34 acres, in a major push to balance industrial growth with environmental protection. Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) chairperson P Krishnaiah said on Wednesday that the initiative had gained momentum following directions from deputy chief minister Pawan Kalyan to develop greenbelts within industrial premises and expand existing greenery.

The APPCB has been encouraging industrial managements to take up plantations and other measures to increase green cover, with a focus on reducing pollution and maintaining ecological balance, he said. Krishnaiah underlined that industries should accord equal importance to environmental protection and industrial development.

While industrial activity played a crucial role in the economic growth of the state and the country, adequate precautions were necessary to prevent adverse environmental impacts, he said. The additional green cover developed over the past three months reflected efforts to promote greenery across industrial units, according to official APPCB data.

The board has been prioritising greenbelt development as part of its efforts to balance industrial expansion with environmental sustainability. Focus on 33% green cover The APPCB is promoting greenbelt development in accordance with the guidelines of the Union ministry of environment, forest and climate change and the environmental clearance conditions applicable to industries, Krishnaiah said.

Industrial managements are being encouraged to increase greenery based on their pollution potential and the regulations applicable to them. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, help reduce the spread of dust particles to some extent and contribute to maintaining the local ecological balance.

Adequate greenery around industrial units can also improve environmental quality, he said. Krishnaiah said industries should prioritise developing greenbelts covering 33% of their premises wherever required under the relevant guidelines and environmental clearance conditions.

He emphasised that greenbelt development should go beyond planting saplings to include their maintenance, survival and the selection of species suited to local climatic conditions. Industries should make effective use of vacant land within their premises and sustain efforts to expand greenery, he said.

The APPCB would continue its efforts to protect the environment without impeding industrial progress and ensure a healthier environment for future generations, Krishnaiah added. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Vijayawada | Silver Rate in Vijayawada | Bank Holidays in Vijayawada | Public Holidays in Vijayawada | Petrol Price in Vijayawada | Diesel Price in Vijayawada | CNG Price in Vijayawada | LPG Price in Vijayawada Stay updated with the latest Vijayawada news.