ISLAMABAD: More than 2,000 trees including cheer, pine and citrus have been planted on Kashmir Highway under Clean, Green Pakistan initiative.

According to a statement, Capital Development Authority (CDA) was tasked to carry out landscaping and tree plantation along the Kashmir Highway in January.

The purpose of this initiative was to protect the right of way and green belt along the Kashmir Highway from encroachments and illegal constructions.

In accordance with the vision of the prime minister regarding protection and enhancement of the green character of Islamabad, tree plantation and landscaping work is in full swing and due to consistent efforts so far 2,000 trees have been planted.

The tree plantation is being carried out in collaboration and assistance with all departments concerned including CDA, ICT Administration, Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad.

In order to enhance survival rate 6 feet tall grown trees are being planted.

During this designated campaign up till now 1,200 grown up tress have been planted on the section from G-13 to G-14, 250 grown cheer pine have been planted from G-9 to G-10 while plantation of grown trees on the section along the sector G-11 is in progress. Similarly, the tree plantation would also be carried out on the both sides along G-8.

The basic objective of planting grown trees is to ensure survival and proper growth of the plants. Moreover, different indigenous species are also been preferred as they can withstand the local weather conditions.

Furthermore, Environment Staff of MCI has been deputed so that survival of these plants could be carried out.

Published in Dawn, February 16th, 2020