The TTD forest department excels in forest wealth conservation, with extensive measures for the restoration of native species
TIRUMALA, MAY 19, 2026: The Forest Department of TTD has been protecting the rich forest wealth of Seshachalam Hills since 1980, maintaining ecological balance while catering to the spiritual needs of millions of devotees.
By safeguarding the forest areas spread across the sacred Seshachalam Hill ranges in the Eastern Ghats, the department is playing a crucial role in biodiversity conservation.
The TTD Forest Department oversees a total forest area of 2,719 hectares. According to the latest India State of Forest Report (ISFR), an impressive 89.40% forest cover has been recorded under TTD limits, placing it among the leading institutions in the country in terms of green cover. Nearly 2,431 hectares are under forest vegetation, significantly contributing to carbon storage, climate regulation, and biodiversity conservation.
The TTD Forest Department functions under the supervision of the Deputy Conservator of Forests. There are four forest ranges in total — two in Tirumala and two in Tirupati — each headed by a Forest Range Officer. At the field level, Deputy Range Officers, Forest Section Officers, and supporting staff coordinate forest protection activities.
As part of forest protection measures, 24-hour flying squad teams continuously patrol the forest areas to curb illegal tree felling and poaching activities. To prevent forest fires, special fire lines are being maintained, and trained teams respond swiftly to ensure effective fire control measures. Every year, around 26.5 kilometres of fire lines are maintained.
Native Plantation Drive across 576 Hectares:
As a part of biodiversity conservation efforts, TTD has undertaken a major initiative to restore native vegetation in place of exotic Acacia plantations.
Under this programme, native species such as Peepal, Banyan, Cluster Fig, Indian Medlar, Champak, Mango, Sandalwood, Red Sanders, Gooseberry, and Jamun are being planted in phases across 576 hectares. So far, work has been completed in 22 hectares.
Quality Saplings through Special Nurseries:
Special nurseries are being maintained in all four forest ranges under TTD to raise native species, ornamental plants, and medicinal plants. These nurseries supply quality saplings required for forest restoration programmes.
Measures for the Protection of Wildlife
The forests of Seshachalam are home to several wildlife species, including elephants, leopards, bears, and snakes. The TTD Forest Department has been taking special measures to reduce human-wildlife conflict and rescue injured animals.
Keeping in view the severe summer conditions, saucer pits (special water pits) are being arranged in forest areas and regularly filled with water to quench the thirst of wild animals. This initiative helps prevent animals from venturing into human habitations in search of water.
In addition, three snake rescue teams are being kept on constant alert in the queue line premises to mitigate human-snake conflict.
To ensure the safety of devotees, the department also undertakes the identification and removal of dangerous trees, the clearing of fallen trees after storms, and regular trimming of tree branches along roadsides.
Forest Department in Temple Kainkaryams
The TTD Forest Department also supplies sandalwood logs, firewood, Darbha grass, and other materials required for temple rituals. It also maintains road dividers, gardens, and greenery development programmes in Tirumala and Tirupati. The department currently maintains 24 kilometres of road dividers and 25 gardens.
Medicinal plants culture:
Special focus is being laid on the conservation of rare and medicinal plant species. TTD is also supplying raw materials required for the preparation of Ayurvedic medicines.
At present, the TTD Forest Department is implementing several key projects, including Pavitra Vanam, Divya Oushadha Vanam, Palamaneru Timber Plantation in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India for the mitigation of wildlife conflicts, and other programmes to enhance greenery on the hills.
The primary objective of the TTD Forest Department is to preserve the sacred forest wealth and pass on this invaluable natural heritage to future generations.
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