PESHAWAR:
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi on Monday launched the Ehsaas Shajar campaign by planting a sapling at the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa House in Islamabad, aligning with PTI founder Imran Khan’s vision for a clean and green Pakistan.
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 effort at the official level. Public participation is also encouraged, with citizens invited to contribute at the local level.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Afridi described this campaign 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 officially planted on March 23, which communities are actively involved in.
Afridi credited the sustained efforts of the PTI-led administration for the notable increase in forest cover in the province.
“The government is fully committed to protecting our environment, future generations and the planet,” he said, adding that practical measures continued uninterrupted.
He stressed the urgency of expanding and safeguarding forests in the context of growing environmental challenges, leaving no room for neglect. “This national goal requires collective efforts and each segment of society must play its role with enthusiasm,” he stressed.
The Chief Minister made an urgent appeal to the people to vigorously participate in the tree plantation drive, thereby ensuring a safe, green and vibrant environment for future generations.
Officials said simultaneous planting activities are underway in 285 different locations across the province, and all preparations are completed in advance. A modern web portal and central control system have been enabled for effective monitoring, along with a dedicated control room within the Forest Department for real-time monitoring.
The public was invited to plant trees in their neighborhood, share photos and videos of their efforts on the web portal and help amplify collective action.
The provincial government remains committed to maintaining this momentum, with another major target of planting 1.4 million saplings set for August 14 (Independence Day) to further expand greening efforts and ensure a lush and protected environment.
