BARAMULLA: A plantation drive was on Thursday organized by Social Forestry in collaboration with Polytechnic College Kanispora, Baramulla within the college premises under the ‘Ek Paid Maa Ke Naam,' initiative.

The initiative aimed to promote environmental awareness and community participation in creating a greener future.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, inaugurated the drive by planting a California sapling. The event witnessed active participation from the Additional District Development Commissioner, Syed Qamar Sajad, Other concerned officers and students, who also planted a variety of saplings across the college premises.

Speaking on the occasion, the DC emphasized the importance of tree plantation in mitigating climate change and fostering ecological balance. He commended the joint efforts of Social Forestry and the College Authority for organizing the drive and encouraged the younger generation to adopt sustainable practices.

Highlighting the theme, he urged participants to dedicate their plantation efforts to loved ones as a meaningful gesture.

After the plantation drive, the DC inspected several ongoing development projects in the Kanispora area, including the construction of a 100-bedded hostel at the Polytechnic College. The concerned engineer briefed the DC about the project, which is being constructed at a cost of Rs. 715.71 lacs and is expected to be completed by June 2025.

The DC stressed the importance of adhering to deadlines and maintaining high-quality standards in the execution of the project.

Additionally, the DC directed the Block Development Officer (BDO) Baramulla to undertake land development works under MGNREGA and ensure the desilting of the canal in Kanispora to enhance irrigation and water resource management in the region.