Telangana State lags behind with 25.16 per cent forest cover as against a national goal of having 33 per cent of geographical area under tree cover, which calls for steps to protect existing forests and to increase green cover outside the forest areas.

With geographical area being 114.703 lakh hectares, the forest area is found to account for 28.853 lakh hectares, just above a quarter standing at 25.16 per cent. A note on forest protection for the budget session concedes that the forests of TS were subjected to immense biotic pressures leading to their degradation.

Khammam with 7,945 square km leads the table of district-wise forest area followed by Adilabad with 7,101 square km and Warangal with 4,023 square km. Medak district with 963 square km and Nalgonda district with 889.15 square km find a place at the bottom of the table.

The note makes a mention on the ‘urgent need to treat and nurture the forest area’ and adds that efforts were needed to protect ‘existing forests and to increase green cover outside the designated forest areas as well through social forestry activities.’ The objective was sought to be achieved by a multi-pronged approach of rejuvenating degraded forests, ensuring more effective protection of forests against smuggling, encroachment, fire and grazing, among other steps.

A ‘zero tolerance’ approach towards smuggling, poaching and encroachment was also suggested for protection and improvement of forests. The Forest Department in recent times has taken up initiatives such as establishing 128 base camps in interior areas and engaging five local tribal helpers at each camp. Also, 56 strike forces with vehicles were set up to control teak smuggling and 56 check posts strengthened with additional manpower.