Govt to Plant Over 5 Million Trees in Islamabad: A Major Step Towards Environmental Sustainability

In a significant move to combat climate change and enhance the green cover of the capital, the federal government has announced plans to plant over four to five million trees in Islamabad. This ambitious initiative is part of the broader Carbon Credit Programme and will cover an expansive area ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 kanals, as revealed by Romina Khurshid Alam, the Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination.

A Green Vision for Islamabad

The tree plantation drive is a key component of the government’s efforts to address the pressing challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. With Islamabad being particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, this initiative aims to transform the city into a model of environmental sustainability and climate resilience. The large-scale plantation project is expected not only to enhance the city’s green cover but also to play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, thus contributing to the global fight against climate change.

Romina Khurshid Alam highlighted the strategic importance of this initiative, noting that it forms part of the government’s broader commitment to preserving the ecological balance in and around the capital. The targeted areas for plantation, ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 kanals, include both urban and peri-urban spaces, ensuring a widespread impact on the city’s environment.

Financial Commitment to Margalla Hills

In addition to the massive tree plantation drive, the government has also pledged to allocate 1.5 percent of the revenue generated from recreational spots in the Margalla Hills to the conservation and protection of the Margalla Hills National Park. This financial commitment is a testament to the government’s dedication to preserving the natural resources of this vital area, which is home to diverse flora and fauna and serves as a critical green lung for Islamabad.

The Margalla Hills National Park is not only a popular recreational spot but also a crucial ecological zone that supports the city’s biodiversity. The funds allocated from the revenue will be used to enhance conservation efforts, protect wildlife habitats, and ensure the sustainable management of the park’s natural resources.

Harnessing Technology for a Sustainable Future

Romina also praised the Islamabad administration’s proactive shift towards renewable energy and highlighted the city’s vulnerability to the adverse effects of climate change. In response to these challenges, her ministry has proposed a unique artificial intelligence (AI)-based solution to the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration aimed at improving the city’s air quality.

This innovative approach involves the integration of AI technology to monitor and manage air pollution levels, with a particular focus on reducing emissions from gasoline and diesel-fueled vehicles. The initiative also includes the promotion of electric vehicles and urban forestry, both of which are expected to significantly improve air quality, reduce public health risks, and make the city more attractive to international tourists.

“Currently, the air quality of Islamabad exceeds the interim WHO permissible limits, largely due to emissions from fossil fuel-powered vehicles,” Romina stated. The proposed measures are designed to mitigate these emissions, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment for the city’s residents.

A Collective Effort for a Greener Islamabad

Romina Khurshid Alam emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing the challenges of climate change, particularly in urban areas like Islamabad. The combination of tree plantation, conservation efforts, and the adoption of advanced technologies reflects a comprehensive approach to environmental management.

“These measures are setting a pioneering example in climate action, promising a greener and more sustainable future for the residents of the capital city and the adjoining areas,” she remarked.

The government’s initiative to plant over five million trees, coupled with its commitment to renewable energy and AI-driven solutions, marks a significant step towards making Islamabad a model environmentally sustainable city. As these efforts take root, the capital is poised to become a beacon of environmental stewardship and climate resilience in the region.