KP Surpasses Tree Plantation Target, Plants 190,000 Saplings Across Province: Mansoor Khan
Provencial aid for Forests Muhammad Mansoor Khan Ghazi has said the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is committed to advancing the vision of a Green Pakistan and increasing forest cover across the province. He stated that Chief Minister Sohail Khan Afridi had initially set a target of planting 114,000 trees by August 14th, but with the active participation of the public, students, and civil society, the province surpassed the target by planting approximately 190,000 saplings.
The advisor mentioned that the Chief Minister has now set a new goal of planting 200,000 trees by September 6th, expressing confidence in achieving this through continued public engagement and support from educational institutions and civil society.
Muhammad Mansoor Khan Ghazi emphasized the crucial role of trees in maintaining a clean and healthy environment, encouraging citizens to collaborate with the Forest Department to safeguard newly planted saplings and ensure their survival. He also highlighted the contributions of former Chief Conservator of Forests, Asghar Khan, whose professional and environmental leadership served as an important example in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Asghar Khan introduced modern forest management practices aligned with international standards, strengthened measures against illegal logging and timber smuggling in regions like Hazara and Malakand, and improved monitoring mechanisms. He also developed emergency plans for forest fire protection, provided modern training for field staff, and oversaw large-scale plantation campaigns aimed at mitigating climate change and increasing forest cover. Furthermore, he promoted environmentally responsible tourism by preserving historic government rest houses and access routes while maintaining the natural beauty of forest areas.
The advisor concluded that such efforts would not only make Khyber Pakhtunkhwa greener but also protect future generations from escalating environmental challenges.
