Punjab Unveils ‘Friends of Forest’ Drive: 51 Million Trees & Eco-Tourism Boost

Lahore — Punjab has rolled out its grand ‘Friends of Forest’ initiative, pledging to plant 51 million trees under the Chief Minister’s Plant for Pakistan campaign. The drive, inaugurated at Jallo, aims to expand green cover, uplift eco-tourism, and shield forests with cutting-edge tech including drones, satellites, and 24/7 command centres.

From Lal Suhanra National Park to the Salt Range, eco-friendly visitor hubs are in the works, while the Shielding Summits Programme fortifies Murree and Kahuta with fire-watchers, watchtowers, and forest trail restoration.

Officials say the high-tech overhaul will revolutionize forest protection, though experts caution against plantation in flood-hit zones.

The initiative marks Punjab’s bold step toward climate resilience, digital conservation, and sustainable tourism.