Thoothukudi, often referred to as the “Pearl City,” is a coastal gem in southern Tamil Nadu. With a rich maritime history dating back to the 6th century, this port city has long been a hub of trade & commerce. This district also boasts a diverse topography ranging from pristine coastal ecosystems and sand dunes to rivers, estuaries, grasslands and even arid landscapes supporting a wide variety of flora and fauna.
However, in recent years, rapid urbanization and population growth have led to the conversion of open land into heat-emitting concrete jungles. These areas are now occupied by residential neighborhoods, industries, and factories. This transformation has significantly reduced green cover and created urban heat island pockets, raising temperatures and posing serious threats to all forms of life.
E.F.I in collaboration with the Thoothukudi Municipal Corporation, is setting up TutiGreen – Urban Afforestation across 13 barren land parcels within the city limits. These spaces are transforming into mini urban forests with over 3,600 native tree saplings. These green patches will not only provide habitat for birds, reptiles, and insects but will also help lower ambient temperatures, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable urban environment.
We thank the Hon’ble MP, Tmt. Kanimozhi, Mayor Thiru. P. Jegan and
Commissioner Thiru. Madhubalan, IAS for inaugurating this green movement.
Each of these sites was first cleared of invasive weeds and garbage, then properly fenced. With support from the Corporation, borewells and piping systems were installed to ensure regular water supply. The plantation beds were prepared by leveling the surface, followed by the digging of horizontal trenches. These trenches were then filled with compost, and diverse variety of native tree saplings including berry-bearing, fruit-bearing, and nectar-producing saplings were planted to promote local biodiversity. Dedicated gardeners regularly watered and maintained the saplings to ensure healthy growth.
In just two years, these saplings will have grown into trees with lush green canopies. The high density of native trees helps mitigate urban heat island effects and provides vital habitat for birds, insects, reptiles, mammals, and more. The network of roots strengthens soil structure and aids in nutrient recycling, while the leafy canopy above and the root systems below capture and retain rainwater, helping to recharge groundwater levels.
| Location | Total no of saplings |
| Athiparasakthi Nagar | 250 |
| Ganga Parameshwari Nagar 1 | 210 |
| Ramanathapuram | 330 |
| Sankaraperi | 160 |
| Grace Nagar | 350 |
| Jothi Nagar | 1000 |
| Martina Nagar | 620 |
| Ganga Parameshwari Nagar 2 | 170 |
| EB Colony A | 100 |
| EB Colony (Near by house) | 210 |
| Elumalaiyan nagar 1 | 70 |
| Elumalaiyan nagar 2 | 70 |
| Dhanushkodi nagar | 125 |
Volunteer for India and her Environment with E.F.I