The Hoshiarpur Forest Division has set a target of planting 6.5 lakh saplings during the current plantation season. To increase green cover and encourage people to plant more trees, the department is also planning to develop 60 Miyawaki forests under the name of ‘Nanak Bagichi’ across the district and a memorial forest is also on cards.
This was shared by Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Dharmveer Dheru on the side-lines of a Van Mahotsav programme. After planting a sapling, he appealed to people to make the best use of the monsoon season and plant as many trees as possible.
Replying to a query, Dheru said the Forest Department has prepared around 30 lakh saplings in its nurseries. These plants will be made available to social organisations, educational institutions, environmental groups and nature lovers who wish to join the plantation drive. He said interested organisations and individuals can contact Forest Department offices to get saplings. People can also place their demand for plants through the government website.
To encourage more plantation, the government has reduced the price of saplings. Now, a sapling can be purchased for just Rs 2. The move is aimed at making plants affordable for everyone and motivating more people to participate in the drive.
The DFO said planting trees is important for a clean and healthy environment. However, he stressed that the responsibility does not end with planting a sapling. People should also take care of the plants by watering and protecting them so that they grow into healthy trees. He also urged forest officials and staff members to spread awareness among people about the importance of planting trees.
