Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has launched the annual Monsoon Tree Plantation Campaign with the theme for the first week “One Daughter, One Tree”.
Chairing the inaugural meeting of the campaign in Islamabad today, he said tree plantation is a vital national, environmental, and climatic responsibility and it is essential to instill a sense of duty among all citizens.
The Prime Minister directed all the relevant authorities to ensure that the campaign is not merely symbolic but is implemented effectively. He emphasized that the tree plantation is a top priority for protecting a healthy, natural environment for future generations and mitigating the destructive impacts of climate change. He expressed the resolve that the Federal Government will provide all possible support to ensure the success of the campaign. He urged the provincial governments, social and religious leaders, and all segments of society, especially students to actively participate in the tree plantation campaign in a coordinated manner.
Shehbaz Sharif instructed using modern technology to monitor the growth and development of the planted trees. He stressed that tree plantation plays a key role in enhancing human life, preserving valuable natural resources, and supporting biodiversity. He said increasing forest cover and tree plantation is of cardinal importance to counter the harmful effects of climate change and must be pursued through a comprehensive strategy.
The Prime Minister gave special instructions for paying attention on forestation in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan to address seasonal and flood-related disasters. He said Pakistan is among the countries most severely affected by climate change and the Ministry of Climate Change must prepare thoroughly for the upcoming global climate conference.
Shehbaz Sharif said recent monsoon season’s extraordinary rains and floods have once again proven that forests are indispensable for Pakistan. He called for developing a strategic plan for seed availability and sowing during the monsoon season, utilizing the favorable climate and fertile land in the Margalla Hills to protect forest cover.
The meeting was briefed that 41 million new trees will be planted across Pakistan over the next three months. It was said this year’s campaign will be marked under various weekly themes to highlight the importance of tree plantation and its role across different segments of society. Themes include: One Daughter, One Tree”, Green Umbrella,” “One Tree in the Name of Every Martyr,” and “Islam and Tree Plantation”.
These themes aim to honor the sacrifices of country’s martyrs and encourage participation from women, youth, and institutions in climate action and tree plantation.
