05 June 2026, Vijayawada.

As part of World Environment Day 2026, NHAI (National Highways Authority of India) organized the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” plantation drive at various Toll Plazas across the State of Andhra Pradesh. Among them, a major plantation programme was conducted at Kaza Toll Plaza under the guidance of the Regional Officer, Shri R.K. Singh, IES, CGM(T).

The programme witnessed the presence of chief guests Shri S. Balaji, Asst. Inspector General & Forests, MOEF&CC, IRO Chennai; Shri C. Murali Krishna, Addl. Director & Scientist-E, MOEF&CC.

The programme commenced with the message sent by NHAI Chairman Shri Santosh Kumar Yadav from New Delhi on the occasion of World Environment Day, which was conveyed by Dr. K. Suryanarayana, Retd. IES, Joint Advisor (Environment & Plantation).

Addressing the gathering, Shri R.K. Singh, IES, CGM(T) NHAI RO Vijayawada, stated that NHAI is committed to creating green and healthy highways for the people of the State. Andhra Pradesh has a total National Highway network of 8,360 kms, out of which 4,022 kms are under the jurisdiction of NHAI. He stated that during the period from 2010 to 2025, around 18 lakh seedlings have been planted along National Highways through avenue and median plantations, and the same are being maintained to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change and ensure safer travel for highway users.

Further, during the current year 2026–27, a target of 3.86 lakh saplings has been set for avenue and median plantation. Today, under the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, about 3,200 saplings have been planted across the State of Andhra Pradesh.

Shri R.K. Singh, IES, CGM(T) NHAI RO Vijayawada, further stated that the goal of “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” is to encourage every citizen to plant a sapling in tribute to his or her mother. He said the programme reflects India’s culture and heritage by honouring Mother Earth through plantation activities, promoting awareness on nature conservation and encouraging the concept of reduce, reuse and recycle. He also called upon students to actively participate and help create a green army for the future.

The dignitaries highlighted the importance of environmental protection, biodiversity conservation, pollution control and sustainable living practices for safeguarding future generations. They stressed the need to increase green cover, conserve natural resources and create greater public awareness on environmental responsibility. They also encouraged everyone to actively participate in plantation drives and contribute towards building a cleaner, greener, healthier and more sustainable future.

Shri M.K. Chowdary, General Manager; Shri T. Srinivas, DGM and Shri M. Vidyasagar, Project Director; were among the other dignitaries present on the occasion.

 

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