Why in the News?
Andhra Pradesh launched the Great Green Wall project, inspired by Africa’s Great Green Wall, to turn its 1,034 km Bay of Bengal coast into a bio-shield against cyclones and sea-level rise.
About Great Green Wall of Andhra Pradesh:
- Overview: Launched as a flagship coastal afforestation and climate resilience project; Forms part of the state’s Coastal Green Mission, aligning with SDG 13 (Climate Action) and India’s National Coastal Mission.
- Objective: To protect Andhra Pradesh’s 1,034 km Bay of Bengal coastline from cyclones, tsunamis, and sea-level rise.
- Inspired by: Africa’s Great Green Wall, adapted for India’s eastern coastal ecosystems.
- Target: Enhance Andhra Pradesh’s green cover from 30% (2025) to 37% by 2029 and 50% by 2047 through sustained plantation and protection efforts.
Key Features:
- Geographical Coverage: Extends from Tirupati to Srikakulam, spanning the full 1,034 km coastline.
- Width: Green belt stretches up to 5 km inland, with a variable width of 50–200 metres.
- Core Species: Plantation includes mangroves, casuarina, palmyra, bamboo, and other shelterbelt trees.
- Launch Site: Officially inaugurated at Surya Lanka Beach (Bapatla district) on 11 September 2025.
- Community Role: Involves Self-Help Groups, eco-clubs, MGNREGS workers, fishermen, and local coastal communities.
- Integration: Develops green buffers around ports, SEZs, industrial corridors, and aquaculture ponds.
- Funding: Supported by CAMPA, MISHTI, Green Credit Programme, MGNREGS, CSR funds, and District Mineral Funds.
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