Deputy Commissioner Kathua Rajesh Sharma today kickstarted the Van Mahotsava plantation drive organised by the Social Forestry Department Kathua under the theme "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" at the Kathua Waterfront along the Kathua Canal. The plantation drive aims to promote environmental conservation, expand the district's green cover and encourage public participation in afforestation initiatives.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC said tree plantation helps maintain ecological balance and mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change, adding that trees play a vital role in oxygen production, improving air quality and creating a healthier environment for present and future generations.
The Deputy Commissioner said all available vacant and uncovered areas should be identified and covered with plantations to increase the district's green cover. Calling the Kathua Waterfront one of the city's prominent recreational spaces, he appealed to the Divisional Forest Officer, Social Forestry Kathua, to undertake plantation along the entire stretch of the waterfront given the large number of morning and evening walkers, cyclists and visitors who frequent the area.
He said the initiative would also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the waterfront and provide a pleasant ambience for the public. Speaking on the occasion, Divisional Forest Officer Social Forestry Kathua, Hitashi Sharma said the department plans to plant more than 350 saplings along the Kathua Waterfront to further beautify the area and strengthen the city's green landscape.
She appealed to the people to participate in the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" and "Ek Ped Shaheed Ke Naam" campaigns by planting and nurturing trees and invited educational institutions, allied departments, non-governmental organisations and other stakeholders to collaborate with the Social Forestry Department in organising plantation drives and ensuring post-plantation care.
Interested organisations can coordinate with the department to obtain saplings or organise plantation programmes at suitable locations. Among others, Additional Deputy Commissioner Kathua Mahima Madan, Assistant Commissioner Revenue Vishav Partap Singh and Divisional Forest Officer Social Forestry Kathua Hitashi Sharma, along with officers and officials of the department also planted saplings during the programme.