KARACHI:
When an admirer praised French philosopher Voltaire for the work he had done for posterity, he replied, “Yes, I have planted 4000 trees.” Two centuries later, the necessity of trees has risen manifold — owing to the deteriorating climatic conditions — whereas their number has steadily declined.
Previously, the roadsides in rural areas were shaded by trees, which provided cover from the scorching sun and restored the purity of the air. Unfortunately, this cover has dwindled in recent times due to the cupidity of self-centered elements and a lack of government oversight.
Pakistan might not be among the top contributors to climate change, but it is among the most affected. Planting trees can be a step in the right direction to tackle climate change. However, under the aegis of the government, plantation can be far more impactful. In particular, the Punjab Government, through the Suthra Punjab Program, can run an effective plantation drive. Given the manpower and resources already in place, incorporating tree plantation into the responsibilities of the workers can yield significant results. Hence, for the sake of our posterity, it is imperative that we too turn to trees.
Sadoon Ihsan Hunjra
Hafizabad
