South Punjab losing native vegetation

Once the silent guardians of South Punjab's rural and urban landscapes, native trees that stood tall for decades are now vanishing, falling victim to rapid urbanisation, agricultural expansion and environmental neglect.

About three decades ago, the region's villages and towns were dotted with indigenous species like Kikar, Shisham, Ber, Toot, Neem and Bohar. These trees, not only provided shade, shelter and sustenance but also formed an essential part of the region's cultural, spiritual and ecological identity.

Today, their presence has drastically declined, and with them, a vital chapter of South Punjab's environmental and cultural heritage is fading. The decline of these trees is not just about biodiversity loss, it represents a cultural erosion.

In many rural areas, the banyan tree was seen as a gathering place as its vast shade provided refuge from the desert sun. Children played on its hanging roots, and elders held community meetings beneath its branches. Neem, known for its medicinal value, was often planted near homes and mosques, while Shisham and Kikar were central to the furniture craft that once thrived in cities like Multan and Bahawalpur.

The aggression expansion of agriculture has led to the clearance of native trees for cultivation.

Environmental experts suggest that reintroducing native tree plantations along canals, roadsides, schools and government offices can help restore the ecological balance. Creating awareness among schoolchildren about the cultural and medicinal importance of indigenous trees can foster a sense of ownership in the younger generation. Community-based tree adoption programmes and incentives for farmers to maintain old trees on their land can also make a difference.

According to forest department sources, tree plantations are under way on government land under the Plant for Pakistan project.