Multan:Multan Division will plant large shade trees along its canals’ bank and officials have been directed to prepare action plans. Chairing a meeting, Commissioner Multan Division Amir Karim Khan said planting trees along canals would improve the environment and enhance natural beauty. The Irrigation Department, Forest Department and district administrations will work under a joint strategy to make the drive organized and sustainable.
He directed that the plans account for suitable tree species, water availability, land ownership and upkeep of saplings. In the first phase, priority will go to the outer banks of canals and available state land, while planting on inner banks will be decided on technical grounds and the need to protect the canal system. Trees must be placed so that repair, desilting, machinery movement and water flow are not affected.
The commissioner asked officials to identify encroachments on state land along canals and use the available space for plantation. Where private land adjoins canals, landowners will be encouraged to plant trees. Lessees of state land and numberdars, along with private landowners, are to be involved, and the Irrigation Department will send suitable proposals to the provincial government.
Irrigation officials briefed the meeting on technical aspects and available sites, noting that some canal banks have room for plantation but that urban settlements, canal lining and machinery movement must be considered. The Forest Department briefed participants on ongoing plantation schemes, proposed targets and measures for tree care in different areas.
The commissioner said targets must be realistic and backed by plant survival and protection. Separate strategies are to be prepared according to the nature of each canal, year-round water availability and weather conditions. The Irrigation Department and district administrations will help the Forest Department with water supply.
He directed all districts to present comprehensive action plans, with tehsil-wise and canal-wise targets, proposed sites and timelines, at the next meeting. He stressed that the campaign should not stop at planting, and that continued care and protection must be an integral part of the plan.
Deputy commissioners, chief engineers of the Irrigation Department, Forest Department officials and other concerned officers attended the meeting.