Lungs of Lahore: Massive Tree Belt to Restore City’s Environment

The Punjab government has unveiled the “Lungs of Lahore” project — a 112-kilometre-long tree belt designed to combat smog and pollution around the provincial capital. Over 4.8 million saplings will be planted across 1,711 acres in three phases, with the first 59-km stretch covering 1,210 acres within a year. Native species such as Jamun, Kachnar, Guava, Arjun, and Sukh Chain will be used to enhance biodiversity and air quality. Officials say the project will help control urban sprawl and restore ecological balance. With Lahore’s AQI recently crossing 400 — among the world’s worst — the initiative aims to provide long-term environmental relief for 20 million residents.