EPG, SKAL Kashmir lead mega plantation drive in Beerwah

Srinagar, Apr 1: The Environmental Policy Group (EPG), in association with SKAL International Kashmir and Government Boys Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Beerwah, organised a mega plantation drive titled “Planting Today, Sustaining Tomorrow” atop a partly barren hill in Rathsun area in Budgam district.

The drive was led by EPG Convenor Faiz Bakshi and witnessed active participation from Zahoor Qari, President of SKAL International Kashmir, and Sarwar Bukhari, Principal of GHSS Beerwah.

As part of the initiative, around 1,100 conifer saplings—including pine, fir, and other species suitable for hilly terrain—were planted to restore the ecological balance of the area. The plantation site, spread over more than 1,800 kanals, has previously seen similar efforts. Notably, senior journalist Rifat Abdullah had planted a significant number of conifers in the region a few years ago, many of which have now grown and contributed to greening parts of the landscape.

Speaking on the occasion, Faiz Bakshi emphasised the urgent need for large-scale plantation drives across Jammu & Kashmir to counter the adverse impacts of climate change and global warming. He warned that environmental degradation is increasingly posing serious risks to ecosystems and living beings across the region.

In addition to the plantation activity, EPG, SKAL, and GHSS Beerwa also conducted a cleanliness drive, during which a substantial quantity of garbage scattered across the hill was collected. Participants also engaged with local residents, urging them to maintain cleanliness and protect the environment.

The event saw participation from several members of EPG, including GCC member Mushtaq Ahmad Wani, along with faculty and students of GHSS Beerwa and SKAL members such as Ather Yamin, Faisal Shahjee, Anjum Dawood, Burhan Misger, Rahil Bashir, Abrar Qadir, Irfan, Mir Azhar, and Muzamil.

The organisers reiterated their commitment to continue such initiatives, with Faiz Bakshi announcing that the Environmental Policy Group will undertake more plantation drives across the region in the coming days in collaboration with partner organizations.