Steps on to promote, protect forests, says CM’s aide

BATKHELA: Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Forests, Pir Musavir Khan, reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to promoting and protecting forests through large-scale plantation initiatives.

Speaking at an event organised by the Forest Department in Kot tehsil in Dargai, he urged public participation in tree plantation efforts.

Officials, students from government schools, and local residents - working in collaboration with the welfare organisation “Naway Sahar”- planted approximately 2,000 trees of various species. Additionally, Pir Musavir Khan distributed 3,000 saplings among local residents to encourage community involvement in forest conservation.

Emphasising the importance of plantation in tackling climate change, he stated that extensive tree-planting efforts were crucial in reducing carbon emissions and mitigating environmental hazards. He reiterated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and in alignment with the vision of PTI founder chairman Imran Khan, the government remains dedicated to increasing green cover across the province.

Musavir revealed that the Forest Department aims to plant one million trees in the region. He also commended the participation of non-governmental organizations in these efforts, calling their contributions significant in fostering a sustainable and green environment.

The SACM urged citizens to plant trees not only in designated areas but also at their homes and surroundings to enhance environmental beauty and protection.

He encouraged students and the youth to actively support the government’s plantation drive, emphasizing that a greener province would lead to a healthier and more prosperous future.

Deputy Commissioner Malakand, Assistant Commissioner Dargai, and officials from the Forest Department were also present at the event, along with enthusiastic community members and students.