ISLAMABAD: The Punjab Forest Department, in collaboration with Faisal Town Group, has launched a large-scale tree plantation drive in the Margalla Hills region, setting a target of planting 500,000 saplings during 2026 to help restore forest areas affected by stone crushing and environmental degradation.
The initiative, held at Faisal Hills on February 14, 2026, is part of the Punjab government’s “Green Punjab” vision and the “Plant for Pakistan” campaign. Officials said the effort aims to improve environmental sustainability, counter pollution and smog, and rehabilitate damaged green cover in the area.
According to organizers, plantation activities have begun during the ongoing spring season. Environmental experts associated with the campaign noted that large-scale afforestation has become increasingly important amid rising air pollution and climate-related challenges.
The launch ceremony was attended by representatives from public and private sector organizations, students and local residents. The event opened with the release of green balloons, followed by the planting of saplings as part of the formal inauguration.
Members of the National Assembly Asiya Tanoli and Mohsin Ayub Khan attended the event and acknowledged the provincial government’s environmental initiatives. They said tree plantation efforts are necessary in light of growing environmental pressures and highlighted the long-term benefits of forest restoration.
Chief Conservator of Forests Iftikhar-ul-Hassan Farooqi told media representatives that the plantation campaign is being implemented under the provincial government’s environmental framework. He said restoring forest areas in the Margalla Hills is essential to address climate-related impacts and ecological imbalance.
Faisal Town Group representatives stated that under their Vision 2040 plan, efforts are underway to promote environmentally responsible development within Faisal Hills, alongside infrastructure growth.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, participants planted saplings and pledged to continue the drive in the coming months, with an emphasis on maintaining and protecting newly planted trees to ensure long-term survival.
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