Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) Additional Executive Officer Ch. Venkaiah Chowdary on Thursday said that the TTD is implementing a comprehensive strategy to increase the green cover in Tirumala to 80% as part of the World Environment Day celebrations.Speaking to the media after planting a sapling of Ficus Bengalensis (Banyan-Marri) in the premises of Octopus building, he said that over 2,000 saplings are being planted in various parts atop the temple town as part of the green initiative.Highlighting the ecological importance of each tree in Tirumala, Mr. Chowdary stated that the TTD is discouraging the planting of foreign species that could harm native flora. “We have identified 40 native plant species through detailed research and the focus is on planting them to preserve the region’s natural biodiversity.’’Emphasising the TTD’s commitment to environmental conservation, Mr. Chowdary noted that the management has already banned the use of plastic in the temple town and further steps are in the offing to make the town plastic-free. Despite the ban, devotees often bring plastic items and throw them out of vehicle windows along the ghat roads, he said and underlined the need to create more awareness and stepping up monitoring at the Alipiri checkpoint. He also announced the temple administration’s ambitious plans to plant an additional 2,00,000 saplings in coordination with the Forest Department in the days to come. The event among others was attended by Deputy Conservator of Forests Srinivasulu, Deputy EO Somanna Rayana and EE Sudhakar.Published - June 05, 2025 07:58 pm IST