Hyderabad GHMC Launches Massive Tree Plantation Drive For Greener City
Uttar Pradesh is set to witness a significant ecological transformation as the state gears up to plant over 1.14 crore saplings along its roadsides during the upcoming Van Mahotsav festival, scheduled from July 1 to 7.
This targeted effort forms a critical component of the state’s ambitious vision to augment its green cover by planting 35 crore trees by 2025, signalling a determined commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience. The Forest Department, leading this massive plantation campaign, has meticulously prepared more than 52.43 crore saplings across 2,586 nurseries throughout Uttar Pradesh. This extensive groundwork ensures a robust supply chain and underpins the operational readiness necessary for meeting the high planting targets. Complementing this endeavour, the Uttar Pradesh Expressways Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA) will contribute by planting an additional 2.5 lakh saplings along key expressways, including Bundelkhand, Purvanchal, Ganga, Gorakhpur Link, and Agra-Lucknow. This synergy between departments highlights the holistic approach towards ecological restoration and urban-rural connectivity enhancements.
Mission Director Deepak Kumar emphasised that this initiative reflects the coordinated efforts of multiple state departments, all aligned under the stewardship of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The campaign not only aims to boost Uttar Pradesh’s green footprint but also aims to foster ecological balance, mitigate air pollution, and support biodiversity in both urban and rural areas. The strategic selection of roadside plantations will contribute to reducing carbon emissions, improving air quality, and creating green corridors, thus advancing the state’s journey towards zero net carbon objectives. Van Mahotsav, historically a symbolic festival celebrating trees and nature, now serves as a critical platform to intensify environmental consciousness and community participation. The targeted plantation along expressways is poised to deliver multiple benefits, including enhanced shade, reduction in soil erosion, and improved microclimates in adjoining regions, which will collectively nurture healthier ecosystems.
Uttar Pradesh’s massive sapling drive exemplifies the evolving role of state governments in confronting climate challenges through actionable, scalable projects. The success of this mission depends not only on planting numbers but also on ensuring the survival and growth of saplings through sustained maintenance and community engagement. This initiative sets a benchmark for sustainable development models by integrating environmental goals with infrastructure development. As the monsoon season provides an opportune moment for plantation, the state’s comprehensive preparatory measures and interdepartmental coordination demonstrate a strong foundation for achieving these ambitious green goals. While challenges remain, including sapling survival and effective management, Uttar Pradesh’s proactive stance reinforces the importance of state-level leadership in India’s broader ecological transition.
The coming months will reveal the tangible impact of this campaign, potentially setting a replicable example for other states seeking to harmonise growth with environmental stewardship. Through this large-scale greening endeavour, Uttar Pradesh is not just planting trees but sowing the seeds for a more sustainable, equitable, and climate-resilient future.
