Punjab to plant 31 million saplings under major 2026 green plan

Lahore: The Punjab government has launched an ambitious environmental initiative for 2026, aiming to plant 31 million saplings across the province to increase green cover and address climate change challenges. Under the “Plant for Punjab” campaign, authorities plan to restore forests over 7,000 acres in southern Punjab with an allocation of Rs. 8 billion, while also establishing 350 urban mini forests and 200 public parks. Forest expansion is also planned in Murree, Kotli Sattian, Kahuta, Kallar Syedan, Attock, Chakwal, and Jhelum. Officials say a Digital Forest Inventory System and a dedicated protection force will support conservation efforts. Stronger green infrastructure can improve urban livability, environmental resilience, land value, and investor confidence. Can this plan reshape Punjab’s environmental future?