AsiaNet-Pakistan Premier Editorial Content and Press Release Distribution Service
Lahore, April 19, 2016 (PPI-OT):Provincial Minister for Forests and Wildlife Malik Muhammad Asif Bha Awan has said that over 9 million saplings have been planted in the province so far under ongoing spring tree plantation campaign 2016. He directed all divisional forest officers of the province to accelerate the pace of tree plantation to achieve the target of planting 12 million saplings by June 2016. He said that strict action would be taken against those who failed to achieve the target.
He expressed these views while presiding over a meeting held to review the progress on Spring Tree Plantation Campaign 2016, in his office, here today. Chief Conservator of Forests Central Zone Rana Shabbir Ahmad and other concerned officers were also present on this occasion.
The meeting was told that a target of planting 42 lakh 50 thousand saplings was set for government forests out of which 28 lakh 80 thousand saplings have been planted so far. Likewise, other government departments planted 12 lakh 66 thousands which is more than the target of 10 lakh, Pakistan Army planted 11 lakh 55 thousand out of 13 lakh, whereas, 37 lakh, 85 thousand saplings have been planted on private lands out of the target of 54 lakh, 50 thousands.
The meeting was told that Forest Department have conducted 66 planting ceremonies, 18 tree plantation ceremonies, displayed 29 publicity stalls, delivered 20 lectures, 15 Radio Talks, 06 Farmers Day and 08 Seminars in this regard. Chief Conservator of Forests Centre Zone Rana Shabbir Rana Shabbir Ahmad emphasized upon all divisional forest officers to ensure maximum public participation in tree plantation ceremonies and create awareness about the importance and benefits of plantation.
He said that officers should not only focus on tree plantation but pay attention on the protection and safeguard of planted saplings. He also directed the DFOs to involve students of schools, colleges and universities in the awareness programs and walks meant to create awareness about usefulness of trees in our lives.
For more information, contact:
Rafiullah Usman
Directorate General Public Relations
Government of the Punjab
Lahore.
Tel: +92-42-9201390-86
Website: www.punjab.gov.pk