RAWALPINDI: Human Resource Development Network (HRDN), under its Plant for Pakistan initiative, organised a Monsoon Plantation Drive at Takht-e-Pari, DHA Phase III, Rawalpindi, in collaboration with the Punjab Forest Department and with support from IRM, CAF and IRM International.
The plantation activity brought together HRDN’s organisational and professional members and was led by HRDN CEO Ms. Robeela Bangash. Senior representatives of the Punjab Forest Department also participated, including Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), Northern Zone Rawalpindi, Iftikhar ul Hassan Farooqi; Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF), South Division, Raja Javaid; and Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF-HQ), Rawalpindi Zone, Kanize Fatima.
The activity went beyond tree planting, providing a platform for discussion on strengthening cooperation between HRDN and the Forest Department and promoting greater community participation in forestry initiatives.
Forest Department officials highlighted the importance of social mobilisation and community engagement for the long-term success of forestry programmes. They also expressed interest in working with HRDN to strengthen the capacity of field staff, particularly in social mobilisation, community outreach and related skills.
During the discussion, participants proposed structured training and capacity-building activities to help field teams engage more effectively with local communities and support sustained, community-driven forest development.
The participants also discussed the importance of forests and plantation, the potential of introducing new and more marketable plant species, and the growing impacts of climate change. Particular attention was given to the disproportionate effects of climate change on women and other vulnerable communities.
The initiative highlighted that successful plantation is not only about putting trees in the ground but also about building local ownership and ensuring their long-term survival.
HRDN reaffirmed its commitment to connecting people, institutions and communities to promote a greener, more resilient and sustainable Pakistan.
