TP REPORT
PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa witnessed an extensive tree plantation campaign under the “Ehsaas Afforestation Drive” on Pakistan Day, coinciding with the third day of Eid, as authorities successfully achieved the ambitious target of planting one million saplings ahead of schedule.
Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Shahab Ali Shah, formally inaugurated the campaign by planting a sapling in Nowshera. Speaking on the occasion, he emphasized that afforestation is vital not only for environmental conservation but also for ensuring a sustainable and secure future for coming generations.
The Forest Department carried out plantation activities at nearly 300 locations across the province, including educational institutions, government offices, and other key sites. The campaign saw active participation from government teams, students, civil society, and members of the general public, reflecting a strong collective commitment to environmental stewardship.
Highlighting the importance of joint efforts, the Chief Secretary termed public-government collaboration essential for achieving national environmental goals. He underscored that transforming the vision of a greener Pakistan into reality requires sustained and collective action.
He further noted that the plantation drive is not limited to a single day but will continue as an ongoing initiative. To ensure sustainability, proper care and protection of the planted saplings will be maintained for at least three years.
In addition, to facilitate public participation and transparency, the Information Technology Board has launched a dedicated web platform where citizens can upload data about their planted saplings, enabling real-time monitoring of afforestation activities.
Looking ahead, Shahab Ali Shah announced preparations for another major plantation target of 1.4 million saplings on August 14. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting forests and expanding green cover across the province through effective and sustained measures.
He also stressed that meaningful environmental improvement is not possible without public involvement, urging greater participation from youth and civil society to make the campaign a long-term success.
