ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) on Monday launched tree plantation drive on Margalla Hills.

Under this drive, according to environment wing of CDA, the civic agency will plant one million trees on the hills. The drive was launched here at a ceremony near Trail 3 by Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar after planting a sapling along with Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change Romina Khurshid Alam.

Speaking on the occasion, the information minister said that Margalla Hills are identity of Islamabad and it is a collective responsibility of citizens and government to protect these hills from hazards.

He added that air quality of Islamabad is better than other cities.

Mr Tarar said that climate change is a major challenge and by more planting more and more saplings, this challenge could be confronted. He urged all segment of the society to actively participate in tree plantation campaigns to safeguard the future of coming generation.

The information minister said that Pakistan contributed only two percent of carbon emissions, but it is the most climate change affected country, therefore, the countries with high carbon emission should collaborate with Pakistan in combating climate challenge.

PM’s coordinator Romina Khurshid Alam also urged planting trees and emphasised the need for coordinated efforts to make tree plantation campaigns a success.

According to the CDA, the event aimed to promote environmental conservation and combat the challenges posed by heat wave and human activities.

CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa expressed gratitude to the information minister and the PM’s aide for their support and attending the event organised by the CDA.

The CDA chairman highlighted the pledges for four million tree plantations secured from the corporate sector and civil society while one million trees have already been arranged by the civic body.

Published in Dawn, July 23rd, 2024