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Nowshera blooms: 500,000 trees sprout in historic plantation drive
9 Sep
Summary
- Over 500,000 trees are being planted across 10,000 kanals in Nowshera.
- The initiative includes planting fruit-bearing and olive trees for community benefit.
- Two reservoirs and solar tubewells will ensure water for the new plantations.
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa forestry department has launched an extensive peri-urban forestry project in the Spin Khak area of Nowshera district. This initiative, slated to cover 10,000 kanals, involves planting more than 500,000 trees, with a target completion by March next year. The project is a key component of the multi-billion Peshawar Revitalisation Plan, aiming to significantly enhance the region's green cover.
The plantation drive includes a variety of tree species, focusing on indigenous options like kikar and sheesham, alongside over 20,000 olive plants and black pepper. The inclusion of fruit-bearing trees such as pomegranate and apricot is intended to create financial incentives for the local community, which has provided the land for the project. This land will be returned to the community after four years.
To support the sustainability of the initiative, two reservoirs are being constructed for rainwater harvesting, and two solar tubewells are being installed to provide a consistent water supply. These measures are expected to improve the local water table and ensure the acclimatization of plants for survival in natural conditions. The project also draws inspiration from the success of the Ghari Chandan urban forest, which has generated significant income for its local community through tree coppicing.
