PHA launches plantation plan for shade trees at cemeteries across Punjab

The Punjab Horticulture Authority (PHA) has initiated plans to increase tree cover at cemeteries across the districts under its jurisdiction

LAHORE: The Punjab Horticulture Authority (PHA) has initiated plans to increase tree cover at cemeteries across the districts under its jurisdiction, with a particular focus on planting indigenous and shade-providing species that can withstand local weather conditions.

The decision was taken during a meeting chaired by PHA Director General Ahmad Usman Javaid, who instructed district managing directors to identify appropriate locations within cemeteries in their respective areas and develop detailed plantation plans.

According to the directions, officials will assess available space and environmental conditions before selecting suitable sites for plantation. Priority will be given to native, evergreen and densely growing trees capable of providing shade throughout the year while adapting to the climatic conditions of the region.

Among the species being considered for plantation are pilkan, terminalia, gab and other locally suitable indigenous varieties. Officials have been directed to carefully assess the characteristics of each species before planting them inside cemetery premises.

The PHA director general also stressed that the root systems of the selected trees must not pose a risk to graves or surrounding structures. He directed officials to identify locations where trees could grow without disturbing graves and other cemetery infrastructure. Deep-rooted varieties will be preferred at locations considered appropriate for tree plantation.

Another key consideration of the plantation campaign will be water availability. District authorities have been instructed to select species that can survive with relatively limited irrigation so that the newly planted trees can be maintained effectively without placing excessive pressure on water resources.

Where cemeteries do not have enough space between graves for planting trees, the authorities have been advised to use smaller flowering plants as an alternative. The measure is intended to improve the overall appearance and greenery of cemeteries while avoiding any disturbance to graves.

Speaking during the meeting, Ahmad Usman Javaid said planting trees was also considered a form of ongoing charity in the light of the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He said the initiative was aimed at increasing green cover while making cemeteries cooler, more pleasant and environmentally sustainable spaces.

The PHA traditionally conducts major plantation activities during the monsoon season, when rainfall creates favourable conditions for the growth and establishment of new saplings. The authority has continued to emphasize the use of native and shade-producing species in its plantation campaigns.

Javaid said indigenous trees were being given preference partly because of their leaf structures, which can help absorb pollutants from the atmosphere. He also highlighted the environmental role of dense coniferous trees, including pine varieties, describing them as year-round biological filters that can contribute to improving air quality.

Meanwhile, PHA district agencies have continued anti-smog activities in cities across Punjab. These measures include regularly watering trees, plants and green belts to reduce dust and help settle airborne particulate matter.

The authority said the plantation and anti-smog initiatives form part of broader efforts to improve urban greenery, enhance environmental conditions and promote more sustainable public spaces across Punjab.