PESHAWAR:
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi on Monday kicked off the Ehsaas Shajar campaign by planting a sapling at the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa House in Islamabad, aligning with PTI founder Imran Khan’s Clean and Green Pakistan vision.
The initiative, launched on the third day of Eid coinciding with Pakistan Day (March 23), aims to plant one million saplings across the province in a single day, a record-setting effort at the official level. Public participation is also encouraged, with citizens urged to contribute at the grassroots level.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Afridi described the drive as a historic and record-breaking step taken on the joyous occasions of Eid and Pakistan Day. He highlighted that the provincial government has set a firm target of one million trees planted officially on March 23, while communities are actively joining in.
Afridi credited the PTI-led administration’s sustained efforts for a notable increase in the province’s forest cover.
“The government is fully committed to protecting our environment, future generations, and the planet,” he said, adding that practical measures are continuing without interruption.
He stressed the urgency of expanding and safeguarding forests amid escalating environmental challenges, leaving no room for negligence. “This national goal requires collective efforts, and every segment of society must play its role enthusiastically,” he remarked.
The Chief Minister made a strong appeal to the people to participate vigorously in the tree plantation drive, ensuring a safe, green, and vibrant environment for future generations.
Officials briefed that simultaneous plantation activities are underway at 285 different locations across the province, with all preparations completed in advance. A modern web portal and central control system have been activated for effective monitoring, alongside a dedicated control room in the Forest Department for real-time oversight.
The public has been invited to plant trees in their areas, share photos and videos of their efforts on the web portal, and contribute to amplifying collective action.
The provincial government remains resolute in sustaining the momentum, with another major target of planting 1.4 million saplings set for August 14 (Independence Day) to further expand greening efforts and secure a lush, protected environment.
