APROPOS “Watering the Maritime Desert” (July 26). The report covers only Karachi whereas the dire need is to cater to all of Pakistan.

The aftermath of floods and heavy rain are the contributory factors in climate change and global warming. This should serve as a warning that Pakistan needs to grow as many trees as possible. Trees reduce landslides on the mountains and also cause a drop in temperature.

Trees check the depleting level of ozone, thus protecting us from extreme weather conditions. The other benefits are they are of enormous use in construction and in furniture.

To have these advantages, there is a dire need for launching a countrywide campaign for the plantation of trees and subsequently protecting them.

Trees are a good absorbent of radiant energy and ultimately the oxygen content in the atmosphere can be enhanced.

I would like to use this opportunity to raise the issue of a virus infecting shisham (sisso) trees.

Most of the trees in Punjab have dried up. The Pakistan Agriculture Research Council needs to look into the matter on an urgent basis.

Engr. R.Riaz Akbar

Wah Cantt

Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2015

On a mobile phone? Get the Dawn Mobile App: Apple Store | Google Play