Chandigarh, Dec 8
In a major push to enhance forest and tree cover under the Greening Punjab Mission, the Forest and Wildlife Preservation Department, led by Forest Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak, has planted more than 12.55 lakh saplings across the state this year.
According to official data, the department has undertaken plantation drives under multiple innovative schemes to conserve and develop existing green areas. Among these, 3.31 lakh saplings were planted under Urban Forestry—including institutional lands and Agro Forestry initiatives (single-row plantations along farmers’ fields adjoining link roads).
Additionally, 2.5 lakh Poplar/Drek trees anaudd 3 lakh Eucalyptus trees have been planted to strengthen the tree cover.As part of its efforts to promote heritage-linked green spaces, the department has developed Pavittar Vans and Nanak Bagichis with barbed-wire protection, where 20,800 saplings were planted.
Industrial undertakings contributed 46,500 saplings, while educational institutions across Punjab witnessed plantation of 1.44 lakh saplings. The department also reported planting 1.62 lakh tall plants under its greening initiatives.Highlighting the purpose behind the extensive drive, the department stated that the primary aim is to create a sustainable green cover by utilizing all available land resources.
The initiative also focuses on raising nurseries, creating public awareness about forest conservation, ensuring plantation protection, setting up forest awareness parks, and promoting forestry research and training activities across Punjab.
Officials said these measures are aligned with the government’s long-term vision to improve ecological balance, mitigate the effects of climate change, and instill environmental consciousness among citizens.
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