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Punjab's Green Corridors: Nature's Defense Against Climate Change
13 Apr
Summary
- Biodiversity corridors are being established to protect climate and natural habitats.
- Native trees like sheesham and bargad will be planted to increase green cover.
- New regulations protect 'Heritage Trees' older than 30 years or with wide trunks.
Horticulture agencies throughout Punjab have been directed to implement the Climate Resilient Punjab Programme by creating biodiversity corridors. These corridors, defined as strips of vegetation connecting natural habitats, aim to protect the climate and natural environments. This initiative is a significant step in combating environmental degradation and addressing air pollution challenges like smog across the province.
The program mandates the planting of native tree species such as sheesham, shahtoot, and bargad to boost green cover and establish wildlife habitats. Landscaping projects will develop new green spaces, with shady trees near bus stops and solar-powered amenities for waiting areas. Students will be involved in climate awareness campaigns and voluntary plantation drives to reduce carbon footprints.
Supporting these efforts are new regulations, the Public Parks, Greenbelts and Green Areas Protection & Regulated Emergency Transplantation Regulations 2026. These regulations grant protected status to 'Heritage Trees' – those over 36 inches wide or 30 years old. A Technical Committee will oversee any necessary disturbance to these trees, prioritizing transplantation and requiring extensive replacement planting for felled trees.
