Varanasi Gears Up for Massive Sapling Drive

Varanasi is preparing for a significant green initiative on Sunday, with authorities planning to plant 15.49 lakh saplings. This large-scale campaign is a key part of Uttar Pradesh's annual Vriksharopan Mahayagya. The saplings will be planted across various locations, including gram sabha lands, school campuses, industrial zones, riverbanks, and along roadsides.

The district has an overall target of 18.41 lakh saplings for the year, with over 2.92 lakh already planted on World Environment Day. The upcoming drive will focus on timber, fruit-bearing, and medicinal species. Preparations include identifying sites, digging pits, ensuring sapling quality, and arranging transportation.

Minister Ravindra Jaiswal emphasized that the drive is a people's movement for environmental conservation. He directed officials to ensure proper protection and watering mechanisms are in place to maximize sapling survival. The initiative also encourages public participation by suggesting free sapling distribution and the planting of culturally significant species like betel leaf and catechu.

Massive plantation efforts are planned for industrial areas, townships, and public places. Schools will host awareness competitions for children. The District Magistrate urged maximum participation from various community groups and appealed to every citizen to plant and nurture at least one sapling.