The Punjab government has decided to launch a large-scale afforestation project in the southern parts of the province, including Dera Ghazi Khan, in an effort to expand forest cover and address environmental challenges. According to official sources, tree plantation activities worth Rs2.5 billion will be undertaken on vacant forest land within the Dera Ghazi Khan Forest Circle.
Project Scope and Objectives
The project aims to bring approximately 7,249 acres of unused forest land under plantation across the region. Officials stated that the initiative is intended to help tackle environmental degradation, rising temperatures, and the impacts of climate change. Additionally, it seeks to prevent encroachments on riverine forests through the immediate utilization of vacant land.
Focus Area: Dera Ghazi Khan Forest Circle
The Dera Ghazi Khan Forest Circle, which comprises nearly 57 percent of Punjab's riverine forests, has been identified as the primary focus area for the project. Afforestation activities are planned in Dera Ghazi Khan, Rajanpur, Muzaffargarh, Layyah, and Kot Addu. The proposed plan also includes the installation of solar-powered tube wells to ensure irrigation of newly planted areas.
Species and Benefits
Authorities said that indigenous and climate-suitable species, including shisham, kikar, neem, beri, and mulberry, would be planted under the initiative. According to the provincial government, the project seeks to increase carbon sequestration, reduce the intensity of smog, mitigate the effects of rising temperatures, and promote environmentally sustainable practices.
Officials noted that the afforestation drive would contribute to expanding forested areas in southern Punjab while supporting ecological stability, environmental protection, and the long-term conservation of natural resources.
