According to an official release, around 12,55,700 saplings have been planted under various initiatives.

Punjab: 12 Lakh Saplings Planted to Expand Forest and Tree Cover

In an effort to boost the conservation, development and expansion of forest and tree cover under the ‘Greening Punjab Mission,’ the Forest and Wildlife Preservation Department, led by Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak, has carried out extensive plantation activities across the state.

According to an official release, around 12,55,700 saplings have been planted under various initiatives.

This includes 31,000 saplings planted under urban forestry, including plantations on institutional land and under agroforestry (single-row plantations in farmers’ fields along link roads), 2,50,000 poplar/drek saplings, and 3,00,000 eucalyptus trees.

Furthermore, 20,800 saplings have been planted under the development of Pavittar Van and Nanak Bagichis, both of which have been secured with barbed-wire fencing. In addition, 46,500 saplings have been planted across industrial units, while schools have recorded plantations of up to 1,44,500 saplings. Apart from this, another 1,62,900 tall plants have also been planted.

The objective of the drive is to expand green cover by planting the maximum possible number of saplings on all available land in the state. The initiative also aims to raise nurseries, generate public awareness about the government’s efforts to increase forest cover, ensure protection of plantations, establish and maintain forest awareness parks, and carry out forestry research and training activities.