A significant project is underway in Vrindavan, Mathura, to eradicate the invasive *Prosopis juliflora* plant species [2]. The forest department is set to remove over 1 million saplings and trees within the Taj Trapezium Zone (TTZ), an area subject to Supreme Court regulations regarding tree felling [2, 3, 4].
The project focuses on the Sunrakh reserve forest, a site of mythological importance where Lord Krishna is said to have subdued the serpent-demon Kalia [2]. *Juliflora* has been detrimental to native flora and fauna, impacting cattle, soil fertility, and contributing to increased malaria cases in the Braj region [2].
With Supreme Court approval granted in December 2023 following a proposal by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the eradication involves detailed enumeration, soil sampling, and site-specific planning [2]. This three-phase initiative, costing Rs 90 crore, aims to replace *Juliflora* with native species like Krishna Kali [2]. The government is considering extending the project to Kanpur, Hardoi, and Hathras later in the year [2].