The Monsoon Plantation Campaign has kicked off across multiple districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, aiming to boost forest cover and promote environmental sustainability. Launched by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, the initiative began with a ceremonial sapling planting at the Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar. The campaign targets planting one million saplings province-wide, including 184,000 fruit-bearing trees to support both ecological and economic benefits.
In Kohat, the campaign was inaugurated by Commissioner Mutasim Billah Shah, with 15,000 fruit trees distributed to local communities in its initial phase. A second phase will see 2,500 more trees planted at Kohat University of Science and Technology. Similarly, in Tank, Deputy Commissioner Tanvir Khan launched the drive, emphasizing fruit-bearing saplings to address environmental challenges. The Forest Department is overseeing the planting of 700,000 saplings, while 250,000 will be distributed to the public for community-driven efforts.
The campaign spans multiple regions, with 367,000 saplings allocated for Malakand, 475,000 for the Northern Forest Region, and 149,000 for the Central South Forest Region. This initiative builds on the province’s ongoing efforts, such as the 10 Billion Tree Tsunami Programme, which has earned global recognition for its climate resilience efforts. Posts on X highlight public enthusiasm, noting the inclusion of fruit trees like apple, citrus, and apricot to enhance local livelihoods.
Local administrations, educational institutions, and community groups are actively participating to ensure the campaign’s success. The focus on diverse species suited to regional climates aims to combat deforestation and mitigate flood risks, a pressing concern given recent monsoon-related flooding in districts like Swat. This collective effort underscores Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 19th, 2025
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