Tamil Nadu News

Prosopis juliflora Eradication

March 24 , 2026 15 hrs 0 min 55 0

The Madras High Court ordered the eradication of Prosopis juliflora (an invasive alien species) from Tamil Nadu.
Prosopis juliflora is a plant species native to the Americas and was introduced in India during the colonial period.
It is a shrub or small tree in the family Fabaceae, a kind of mesquite.
It is native to Mexico, South America and the Caribbean.
It grows rapidly in arid and semi-arid regions and outcompetes native plants.
The plant consumes large amounts of groundwater and degrades soil quality.
Its spread reduces biodiversity and harms local ecosystems.
The order aims to restore native vegetation, improve groundwater and protect biodiversity.
All private landowners must remove the plants from their property within 30 days, after which officials will do it and recover costs.