The Hindu : National : Chandigarh targets one million trees

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Tuesday, Feb 19, 2008
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National

Chandigarh targets one million trees

Special Correspondent

S. F. Rodrigues launches a massive forestation programme by planting a sapling

CHANDIGARH: Setting a target for plantation of one million trees for the current year in Chandigarh, Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator S. F. Rodrigues on Monday launched a massive forestation programme by planting a sapling of Krishan peepal (ficus krishnae) and releasing a Green Chandigarh Action Plan–2008.

Gen Rodrigues called for a partnership with the people to check environmental degradation and ensure sustainable and equitable development in the Union Territory. The Chandigarh Administration had launched over 200 programmes to strengthen the development infrastructure and improve the quality of life of the people, supported by an effective monitoring system to avoid slippage.

He disclosed that a world-class aquarium was being set up near Sukhna Lake to add eco-friendly features to the Sukhna Catchment Area.

Green cover

The Administrator said Chandigarh has a green cover across 35.6 per cent of its total area and there is scope for making the city greener by planting the maximum number of trees and taking post-plantation care for ensuring their survival. Vacant spaces in the Union Territory, especially in education institutions, must be identified for planting flowering trees for beautification of the city, he added.The Green Action Plan document stated that during 2007-08, a total of 149,723 saplings were planted in the Union Territory against a target of 109,170.