LAYYAH: The Monsoon Plantation Drive is continuing across Layyah Forest Division under the supervision of Deputy Conservator of Forests (DC Forest) Syed Sajjad Haider Zaidi as part of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s “Green Punjab Vision.”
The plantation campaign was formally inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Layyah Asif Ali Dogar, who planted a sapling at the Government Officers’ Residence (GOR).
Additional Deputy Commissioner General Shabbir Ahmed Dogar, Additional Deputy Commissioner Revenue Dr Abida Fareed, Assistant Commissioner Rana Zohaib Karim, DC Forest Syed Sajjad Haider Zaidi, Chief Executive Officer Education Abdul Qayyum, District Information Officer Nisar Ahmed Khan, Press Club Layyah President Mohsin Adeel, Boy Scouts from Government MC High School and other officials and participants also took part in the plantation activity.
The administrative arrangements for the plantation ceremony were supervised by Forest Protection Officer Layyah Range Mian Abdul Aziz.
Following the inauguration, Deputy Commissioner Asif Ali Dogar visited Kacheri Road, where he inspected ongoing plantation activities and reviewed measures being taken to protect newly planted saplings.
Officials said the plantation campaign was not merely a ceremonial activity but an important environmental initiative aimed at securing a healthier and safer future for coming generations.
Trees play a vital role in maintaining environmental balance and mitigating the impacts of climate change. They act as natural air filters by absorbing carbon dioxide and other pollutants while releasing oxygen into the atmosphere.
The plantation drive also supports efforts to combat rising temperatures, smog and air pollution. Increased tree cover can help moderate local temperatures and contribute to healthier urban environments.
Trees and vegetation also help reduce soil erosion by strengthening soil through their root systems. This becomes particularly important during periods of heavy rainfall and flooding, when exposed soil is vulnerable to erosion.
Another major environmental benefit is groundwater conservation. Trees help rainwater infiltrate into the soil, supporting groundwater recharge and helping maintain underground water resources. This is particularly significant for areas such as Layyah, where water availability remains an important environmental concern.
The campaign also aims to promote biodiversity by creating habitats for birds, insects and other wildlife. Greater tree cover contributes to ecological balance and provides natural spaces for different species.
Beyond environmental benefits, trees provide fruits, timber and medicinal resources, while green spaces in urban areas can contribute to healthier surroundings and improved public well-being.
Officials and participants urged citizens to actively participate in the plantation campaign and, importantly, take responsibility for caring for the saplings after planting.
The campaign carries the message “One Plant, One Life”, encouraging communities to plant more trees and protect them to help build a greener, cleaner and more climate-resilient Layyah and Punjab.
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