Ontimitta (Kadapa Dist.), Mar 5 (TNT): Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) has initiated steps to enhance greenery on the Ramatheertham and Lakshmanatheertham hills near the Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple in Vontimitta.
The move follows directions from Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to increase greenery in and around the Ontimitta temple area.
TTD’s Forest Department has prepared a plan to plant tree species suitable for the local climate and capable of surviving in the rocky terrain.
On Thursday, TTD Joint Executive Officer V. Veerabrahmam inspected the Ramatheertham hill and offered suggestions to officials from the Forest and Engineering departments.
The Ramatheertham and Lakshmanatheertham hills together cover about 10 hectares. Given the rocky landscape, the authorities have begun planting tree varieties that can grow between rocks.
As part of a pilot initiative, species such as Raavi, Marri, Tellamaddi and Jeelugu have been planted, with plans to plant around 3,000 trees in phases.
TTD officials said special care is being taken during the initial stage to ensure the saplings grow successfully in the rocky terrain and help improve the green cover around the temple premises.
TTD Chief Engineer T. V. Satyanarayana, Forest Department Officer Vijay Kumar and other officials were present during the inspection.
TNT LE
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