Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has announced a comprehensive plan to transform waste management in rural Andhra Pradesh, aiming to generate revenue while improving sanitation. He highlighted the potential to earn ₹2,643 crore annually by processing waste collected from households.
Kalyan stated that the previous government had mismanaged Panchayat funds, leaving them financially depleted. He pledged to address this by implementing a two-times-a-day waste collection service in rural areas, with the processed waste generating revenue that will be reinvested locally.
Furthermore, Kalyan emphasized the importance of environmental protection, calling for the cleaning of rivers and canals that have become dumping grounds. He also highlighted the need to protect cows and increase their population.
In a separate initiative, Kalyan issued an order to remove all Kono Corpus trees, also known as Edakula trees, due to their negative impact on the environment. He explained that these trees, originally planted for beautification, have been found to deplete groundwater and pose health risks. He cited his own experience, removing these trees from his farmhouse after realizing their detrimental effects.
A study has identified 4,602 Kono Corpus trees in Kakinada, which are now being removed in a phased manner following Kalyan's directive. The initiative reflects his commitment to sustainable practices and a holistic approach to environmental protection.