Sangla(IN)In a significant step toward environmental protection and climate resilience, the district administration of Shangla, in collaboration with the Forest Department, has formally launched an extensive tree plantation campaign across the district. Under this initiative, more than 3,000 saplings will be planted in various areas, aiming to restore ecological balance, increase forest cover, and counter the adverse impacts of climate change.The central inauguration ceremony was held at the University of Shangla, drawing a large and diverse gathering of officials, environmental stakeholders, and members of civil society.
The Deputy Commissioner of Shangla graced the occasion as the chief guest, underscoring the administration’s commitment to environmental sustainability and public engagement in green initiatives.The ceremony was attended by key government officials, including District Emergency Officer Engineer Malik Sher Dil Khan, Divisional Forest Officer Alpurai, Sub-Divisional Forest Officers, Sub-Divisional Police Officer Muhammad Bashir Khan, Community Officer of the Forest Department Abid Hussain, Scouts Secretary Haroon Rashid, and Shams-ul-Wahab. Faculty members, students from the University of Shangla, and heads of various district departments also participated, reflecting a unified institutional effort toward environmental conservation.Speaking at the event, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the importance of tree plantation as both a civic duty and a moral responsibility. He stated that forests play a crucial role in sustaining life by improving air quality, conserving biodiversity, and mitigating the effects of global warming. “Planting trees is not merely an environmental activity; it is an investment in our future,” he remarked. He further emphasized that the success of such campaigns depends not only on planting saplings but also on ensuring their protection, proper care, and long-term survival.The Divisional Forest Officer Alpurai, along with other senior officials of the Forest Department, elaborated on the government’s ongoing efforts to expand forest areas in the region. They noted that Shangla, being a mountainous district with rich natural resources, holds immense potential for reforestation and ecological restoration. The plantation campaign, they said, is part of a broader strategy to promote sustainable land use and strengthen the district’s natural ecosystem.Environmental experts and speakers at the ceremony expressed concern over the escalating threat of climate change, which continues to impact weather patterns, agriculture, water resources, and overall human livelihoods. They emphasized that increasing forest cover is one of the most effective natural solutions to absorb carbon emissions, regulate temperature, and prevent soil erosion and landslides—issues particularly relevant to hilly regions like Shangla.
Participants at the ceremony actively took part in planting various species of saplings within the university premises, symbolizing a collective commitment to a greener future. Students, in particular, showed great enthusiasm, highlighting the growing awareness among youth regarding environmental issues and sustainability.In addition to the main event, similar plantation ceremonies were organized in Sub-Division Karora under the Alpurai Forest Division, in connection with Pakistan Day (March 23). These events witnessed large participation from people belonging to different walks of life, including local elders, social workers, teachers, and youth groups. The strong turnout reflected a positive public response and increasing community involvement in environmental initiatives.Speakers at these events reiterated the importance of transforming the plantation drive into a sustained public movement. They urged citizens to take ownership of the campaign by planting trees in their homes, fields, and public spaces, and by ensuring their proper maintenance.
The participants collectively pledged to support the Forest Department’s efforts and to contribute actively toward increasing forest cover in the district.The campaign also aims to instill a sense of environmental responsibility among citizens, encouraging them to play a proactive role in safeguarding natural resources for future generations. Officials expressed optimism that with continued public cooperation and institutional support, Shangla can set an example as a green and environmentally resilient district.The launch of this plantation drive marks a crucial step in addressing environmental challenges at the local level while contributing to national and global efforts to combat climate change.
