The Impressive TimesLucknow, July 20 2024 – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath initiated the large-scale plantation drive ‘Ped Lagao, Ped Bachao Jan Abhiyan-2024’ on Saturday, emphasizing the responsibility of individuals to protect the saplings they plant, especially those dedicated to their mothers.
“If we save the trees, we save the environment,” the CM stated, highlighting the critical role of environmental protection in combating global warming and heat waves. This massive campaign aims to plant 36.50 crore saplings across Uttar Pradesh, dedicated to the initiative ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call.
Adityanath inaugurated the campaign by planting a Harishankari sapling. He reminded the attendees of PM Modi’s appeal on World Environment Day, urging citizens to plant a tree in their mother’s name to combat the environmental crisis caused by human activities.
In his address, the CM highlighted that Uttar Pradesh, with its population of 25 crore, aims to set a new record with this plantation drive. “Today, we aim to plant three saplings for every ‘matri shakti’ in UP, with approximately 12 crore saplings already planted since morning,” he said, stressing the importance of planting, protecting, and preserving the environment.
Reflecting on recent environmental challenges, the CM noted the severe floods that hit 24 districts in Uttar Pradesh, affecting over 20 lakh people due to excessive rainfall in Nepal and Uttarakhand. He attributed these events to global warming, citing record temperatures between 47-50 degrees Celsius in May and June.
Adityanath also discussed the potential water crisis and threat of famine due to untimely rains and droughts. Since the BJP-led government took office in 2017, it has planted 168 crore saplings, with a third-party survey indicating a survival rate of 75-80 percent. This effort has gained global recognition.
The CM mentioned initiatives to reduce carbon emissions, including the replacement of halogen street lights with 16 lakh LED lights, saving electricity and reducing carbon footprints. He also highlighted efforts to ban single-use plastic and revive polluted water bodies, such as the Kukrail river, where a night safari has been planned after clearing encroachments.
The state government’s focus on preserving heritage trees, particularly those over 100 years old, was also emphasized. Notably, the Kalpavriksha tree in Barabanki, believed to be 5,000 years old, stands as a testament to this commitment.
The campaign saw widespread participation from government officials, public representatives, and citizens. The Forest and Horticulture Departments ensured an ample supply of 50 crore plants, with an additional 4 crore from private nurseries. By the end of the day, the CM expressed confidence in achieving the plantation target.
In addition to the plantation drive, the CM distributed saplings to students to raise environmental awareness and encouraged them to care for the plants. He also distributed cheques to farmers for their carbon credit earnings, highlighting the economic benefits of environmental conservation.
The event concluded with the CM reviewing the proposed action plan for the development of Saumitra Van and watching a related short film. The launch of the Vriksharopan Jan Abhiyan-2024 aims to create a greener and more sustainable future for Uttar Pradesh.
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