The University of Agriculture Faisalabad on Thursday took out an awareness walk to mark national tree plantation day aimed at creating the awareness among the people about the blessings of trees.

The University of Agriculture Faisalabad on Thursday took out an awareness walk to mark national tree plantation day aimed at creating the awareness among the people about the blessings of trees. The rally organized by the Department of Forestry UAF was led by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan. The rally commenced from admin block was concluded at Faculty of Agriculture. The participants were carrying placards inscribed with slogans ‘Plant the trees to save the World’ ‘planting one tree provides oxygen to 4 people daily” and ‘curb deforestation’. Dean Agriculture Dr Riaz Ahmad Forestry Chairman Dr Tahir Siddiqi along with other notables also participated. Talking to participants the Vice Chancellor showed his concern that the forest net in the country was only 2.5 percent compared to the international standards of 25 percent. The situation provokes different challenges including climate changes, pollution, drought, heavy floods, and new diseases outbreak. He stressed upon the need to take the tangible steps to curb the crisis with enhanced awareness and collective efforts on the part of the all stakeholders. He said it is really disturbing that instead of increment in our forest net, it is decreasing with each passing day. He showed his concern that due to ever-increasing population, fertile agriculture land is being covered into residential colonies which should be properly controlled with a manageable way. He said that UAF had mapped out a plan to produce skilled manpower and provide training to forestry practitioners. He added that trees are essential part of healthy environment for a better life. The vice chancellor UAF and other members of walk also planted the trees in front of Agriculture Faculty.