Shade, fruit trees planted to mark Plant Health Day

LAHORE:The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) Lahore commemorated the International Day of Plant health by organising a tree plantation ceremony at Qarshi Park under the ‘Plant for Pakistan’ campaign.

In line with this initiative, extensive plantation was conducted at Canal Muslim Town Road, Lal Pul and both sides of the Jinnah Underpass. A total of 2,000 trees were planted, focusing on native, shade-providing and fruit-bearing species. Citizens actively participated in the campaign and offered prayers for national peace and prosperity.

Project Director Qarshi Park, Shafiq Raza also joined the plantation activity. The trees planted included Alstonia, Arjun, Jamun, Al-Mutas and Bougainvillea. These species were selected for their adaptability to the local climate, resistance to urban stress and environmental value.

In its continued commitment to a greener Lahore, PHA has planted nearly one million plants during the current fiscal year. Over 500,000 trees were planted as part of its urban forestry campaigns, while more than 250,000 saplings were freely distributed to the public to encourage private and community planting. Major contributions to urban greening included plantation at several strategic locations across Lahore, such as the ‘Lungs of Lahore’ project with over 100,000 trees, 30,000 at Sattukatla Drain, 25,000 at Babu Sabu Interchange, 19,500 at Niazi Chowk, 10,000 at Saggian Road, 8,000 at China Scheme Drain, 5,400 at Shahdara Flyover and 6,000 along Ferozepur Road.

Director General PHA Lahore M Tahir Wattoo, emphasised that tree plantation is ongoing, especially along roadsides and areas where older trees had fallen due to storms. At each vacant spot, five new trees are being planted to restore and expand the green cover. He stressed the importance of tree planting in ensuring a healthier environment, combating air pollution and addressing urban smog. Trees are the lungs of our city, a vital source of oxygen and natural air purifiers, he said, urging all citizens to actively participate in planting and nurturing trees around them.