In a significant stride towards environmental conservation, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has launched an ambitious mega plantation drive under the theme ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’. This initiative, part of the Swachhata Campaign 4.0 and Swachhata Hi Seva 2024, aims to plant one million saplings across the undivided Visakhapatnam district over the next three years.

The inaugural phase, set to conclude by March 2025, focuses on the distribution of 3.5 lakh saplings. These saplings will be allocated to various stakeholders, including the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC), Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA), the forest department, educational institutions, industries, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), based on their specific requirements. This collaborative approach ensures widespread community involvement in the mission to enhance the region's green cover.

To maintain momentum and ensure effective implementation, a review meeting is scheduled every Thursday under the guidance of the district collector's office. The District Water Management Agency (DWMA) has been entrusted with the crucial responsibility of overseeing the maintenance and nurturing of the planted saplings, ensuring their healthy growth and sustainability.

The Green Visakha Mission is structured in three distinct phases:

1. First Phase (Up to March 2025): Distribution of 3.5 lakh saplings to various entities, fostering a collaborative effort in urban and rural afforestation.

2. Second Phase (2025-2026): An additional 3.5 lakh saplings will be provided, reinforcing the commitment to environmental rejuvenation and expanding green spaces.

3. Final Phase (2026-2027): The remaining saplings will be prepared and distributed, culminating in the successful realization of the mission's goal of planting one million trees.

Demonstrating proactive engagement, the VPA has already planted 21,000 saplings in various agency schools. In partnership with NGOs, an additional 50,000 saplings have been planted in and around the city, showcasing a strong commitment to urban greening and ecological balance.

The selection of saplings is diverse, encompassing both fruit-bearing species and forest varieties. Fruit-bearing trees such as mango, sapota, custard apple, coconut, and tamarind not only contribute to environmental health but also offer nutritional benefits to local communities. Forest species including neem, almond, kadamba, Delonix, and mahogany are chosen for their ecological significance, aiding in biodiversity enhancement and habitat restoration.

This mega plantation drive by the Visakhapatnam Port Authority is more than an environmental initiative; it is a comprehensive movement towards sustainable development, community engagement, and ecological stewardship. By fostering partnerships across governmental bodies, educational institutions, industries, and NGOs, the mission embodies a collective commitment to nurturing nature and securing a greener future for generations to come.