**Green Pakistan Program: CM Punjab Orders Tree Plantation on the Int’l Day of Forests**
[Image of CM planting a tree, as provided in the original article]
On International Day of Forests, Punjab’s Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, reaffirmed the provincial government’s dedication to combating environmental pollution and building a cleaner, more sustainable ecosystem for future generations. This commitment is being realized through the ambitious Green Pakistan Program.
Maryam Nawaz is calling on the public to actively join in tree planting efforts, stressing the importance of planting for the long-term, without expecting instant gratification. In her message commemorating the International Day of Forests, she poignantly suggested that children plant trees in honor of their parents and teachers.
The Chief Minister highlighted the critical role forests play in our environment, economy, and overall well-being. She emphasized that widespread tree planting is crucial to mitigate the severe impacts of climate change, including pollution.
To mark the occasion, the government has set an impressive target of planting 1.5 million saplings across the province during the spring planting season. Beyond this, the “Plant for Pakistan” initiative will see the planting of 4.4 million saplings, and the “Green Pakistan Program” will contribute over 3.4 million trees.
An additional 1.4 million saplings are designated for agro-forests throughout Punjab. Institutions, including health and education facilities, have been provided with 5.5 million saplings to support their own planting initiatives.
In a groundbreaking move, previously unused government-owned lands will be dedicated to afforestation. This includes planned plantations covering 3,700 acres near the Indus River and 1,500 acres in Ghazi Ghat and Muzaffargarh, all under the Green Pakistan Program. The Chief Minister also unveiled plans for significant tree planting along the banks of the Ravi River in Lahore, the Chenab River in Gujarat, and on vacant lands in Gujranwala, Changa Manga, and other areas.
Maryam Nawaz also highlighted the modernization of Punjab’s century-old Forest Department. Advanced technologies like GIS remote sensing, high-resolution mapping, and drones are being implemented. These tools will significantly improve forest health monitoring, help combat land encroachments, and support wildlife protection.
Furthermore, a mobile application has been launched to monitor field staff, and a dedicated helpline (1084) is now available for forest-related emergencies. An intelligence system for the early detection of forest fires is also slated for activation, ensuring a proactive approach to forest preservation.
By planting millions of saplings and embracing innovative technology, the Punjab government, through the Green Pakistan Program, is taking a giant leap towards a cleaner, greener province. This sweeping tree planting drive represents a transformative effort to address climate change and secure a sustainable future.