Chennai
After losing a large number of trees to the cyclone, the civic body is planning to initiate a drive, but this time focussing on native species.
Following soil and water test in all the zones, it was decided to plant saplings according to the category— coastal or around waterbodies — with an aim to also widen the biodiversity of the city.
The tree planting will be taken up at a cost of Rs 5.29 crore, said a statement from the Greater Chennai Corporation. The civic body has consulted Care Earth Trust through Tamil Nadu Urban Infrastructure Financial Services.
S Balaji, former principal chief conservator of forests, and advisor, Care Earth Trust, said that around 90 different sapling varieties have been suggested. “Among 15 zones, there are areas like Tiruvottiyur, Triplicane and Adyar that are coastal. These can support Calophylluminophyllum (punnai), Mimusopselengi (Magizham).
We have suggested ones that can be planted around water bodies like jamun,” he said.
He added that the idea was to also improve the number of birds and butterflies in the city. “Neem and sandal are best for fruit-eating birds like ‘kuyil’. There are flower peckers — a group of birds that feed on flowers, too. So the population of the saplings should be a combination of flowering and fruit-bearing trees,” he said.
Balaji pointed out that the drive would give a lot of importance to native species, focusing on six to seven varieties of plants that are predominantly found in the city. “The species will vary from raintree or Thoongumoonjimaram, neem tree, peltophorum with yellow flowers to Gulmohar.
But Gulmohar’s roots are not very strong. If a cyclone strikes again it will be uprooted,” he said.
The focus is also on planting the right trees on the right areas, especially taking into consideration the size of the roads. “Big trees on small roads can make the plants take over the roads as they grow. For example, Thoongumoonjimaram is best for arterial roads, while Tecoma with golden yellow flowers is best suited for smaller roads,” said Balaji Ornamental and exotic species of plants are also being planted, apart from the native ones. The drive will begin in August and will be completed before the monsoon.
Going back to roots
SPECIES AROUND WATERBODIES: Jamun | COASTAL AREAS: Calophylluminophyllum, Mimusopselengi, Thespesia populnea, Poovarasu,
Terminalia catappa and Naattubadam | FOR ARTERIAL ROADS: Thoongumoonjimaram | SMALLER ROADS: Tecoma with golden yellow flowers
Visit news.dtnext.in to explore our interactive epaper!
Download the DT Next app for more exciting features!
Click here for iOS
Click here for Android