Posted by AI on 2025-07-31 02:55:12 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-15 03:45:46
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Andhra Pradesh's upcoming Nellore Nagaravanam, spread across 125 hectares near Kothur in Amancherla, is on the home stretch. With the expected release of Rs 60 lakh from the central government, the Forest Department is preparing to wrap up the urban forest project.
Launched in 2017, the Nagaravanam project received an initial phase of funding of Rs 1.4 crore from the Centre and Rs 2.10 crore from the State. The first 50 hectares have already been developed, and the department is waiting for the final funds to expand the park.
District Forest Officer (DFO) Mehaboob Basha said, "We are developing the Nagaravanam as the largest park in the State. So far, we have spent around Rs 3.5 crore on developing 50 hectares. We are awaiting an additional Rs 60 lakh from the Centre, which we expect within a month."
He further added, "Once received, we'll complete the remaining works and bring the entire park into full operation within the next three months."
The forest department has collected nominal entry fees for adult and children visitors since June 2023. Officials also plan to allow film and video shoots within the park, boosting tourism and department revenue. Environmental activist Dr R Sreedhar told TNIE that urban forests like Nagaravanam are essential for balancing development with nature. "They not only offer recreational value but also serve as key instruments for environmental education and biodiversity preservation," he said.