Telangana’s Tree Man: Daripalli Ramaiah’s Legacy Fades Ahead of His Passing

Quick summary

• Daripalli Ramaiah (Vanajeevi Ramaiah), known for his decades-long afforestation efforts, passed away in April 2024.
• He was recognized with the Padma Shri award in 2017 for planting and donating crores of saplings.
• approximately a thousand trees he planted on the margins of Khammam-Kuravi road were felled towards the end of 2024 for widening National Highway 365A from single lane to double lane.
• The Ministry of road Transport and Highways sanctioned ₹140 crore for this project as part of a larger central government initiative to improve national highways with an allocation of ₹5,658 crore across India.
• Ramaiah expressed sadness over losing the trees but allowed their removal after being told it was necessary to prevent accidents. He had wished to replant once construction was complete but passed away before fulfilling this goal.
• Many tree species uprooted included rain trees, pongamia, tamarind, bael, and other native varieties nurtured by Mr. Ramaiah for decades.
• Critics like Udaykrishna Peddireddi from Vata Foundation questioned the decision to cut down thes heritage-like trees despite official recognition of their planter.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The story highlights a poignant conflict between infrastructure development and environmental conservation in modern India. While road widening projects are essential for improving connectivity and ensuring safety on busy national highways, they sometimes come at significant ecological costs.In this case, removing hundreds of fully grown trees planted by Vanajeevi Ramaiah undermines years-long grassroots afforestation efforts that earned him one of India’s highest civilian awards.

This instance reflects broader challenges where short-term developmental priorities often overshadow long-term environmental stewardship. Authorities may need better frameworks emphasizing sustainable planning-such as incorporating advanced road design solutions or option routes-to protect areas with ecological significance while pursuing economic progress.

Ramaiah’s legacy demonstrates inspiring commitment toward conservation; though, balancing such legacies with development requires institutions adept at honoring not just individuals but also their enduring contributions like these green ecosystems.

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