Punjab marks Int’l Forest Day with afforestation drive

LAHORE:The Agriculture Department Punjab launched its most extensive afforestation campaign to commemorate International Forest Day, aligning with the "Green Punjab" initiative envisioned by Punjab Chief Minister.

The event, held on Friday, saw participation from Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture Usama Khan Leghari and Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo, who jointly spearheaded the drive at the Rice Research Institute, Kala Shah Kaku.

Addressing the gathering, Usama Khan Leghari emphasised the significance of the "Green Punjab" campaign, stating, “Trees are being planted across Punjab to celebrate International Forest Day with enthusiasm, reflecting our commitment to environmental sustainability.” He lauded the Agriculture Department’s active role in major ecological initiatives, underscoring its dedication to combating climate change.

Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo revealed that millions of saplings are being planted province-wide, with over 500,000 contributed by the department alone. “Both public and private institutions are collaborating in this historic effort,” he noted, adding that successful afforestation could significantly curb environmental pollution. He highlighted agroforestry’s pivotal role in addressing climate challenges, with the department offering farm-level guidance to farmers.

The campaign’s centerpiece was at Kala Shah Kaku, where 5,000 fruit-bearing trees were planted simultaneously, setting a remarkable precedent. To amplify participation, three agricultural universities were assigned specific afforestation targets. Events marking the day unfolded at central, tehsil, and district levels across Punjab, showcasing widespread commitment.

During the ceremony, Leghari and Sahoo planted a sapling, symbolising the drive’s intent. The event drew senior officials, including Additional Secretary Agriculture (Task Force) M Shabbir Ahmed Khan, Director General Agricultural Information Naveed Asmat Kahlon, and Principal Scientist at Rice Research Dr. M Ijaz, alongside other dignitaries.

Meanwhile, Commissioner Lahore Division, Zaid Bin Maqsood, kicked off a massive tree plantation campaign by planting a sapling on World Forest Day, aligning with the Punjab government’s “Plant for Pakistan” initiative. Speaking at the event, he announced that six million plants would be planted across the province under Punjab Chief Minister’s vision, with specific targets assigned to all districts, including Lahore.

The commissioner highlighted key projects like “Lung of Lahore” and “Ring of Lahore,” aimed at boosting the city’s tree cover with large-scale plantations. “In Lahore alone, the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) is planting five million plants under the Ring of Lahore project,” he said. To ensure accountability, all plants in Lahore Division will be geo-tagged, with their growth regularly monitored. “Trees are not just oxygen providers but the essence of life.