Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan had embarked on a monumental plantation drive as part of its "Smog-Free Lahore" campaign, aiming to tackle the pressing issue of smog in the city.

In collaboration with the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA), the organisation orchestrated a grand programme near Lahore Airport, where an astounding 3,000 volunteers came together to plant a staggering 15,000 saplings on a sprawling 7-acre plot of land, effectively establishing a magnificent "Urban Forest."

Recognising the critical importance of tree plantations in addressing smog and climate change, Dr Mushtaq Mangat, Vice President of Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan, emphasised the urgency of the matter during his impassioned address at the event.

He highlighted that tree planting is an ongoing act of charity and stressed the imperative need for intensified efforts to plant more trees across the country. Dr Mangat inaugurated the campaign alongside Tahir Watto, the Director General of PHA, by personally planting saplings.

Distinguished individuals in attendance included Abdullah Nisar Cheema, Project Director of Allama Iqbal International Airport Lahore, Chaudhry Saleem, Vice President of Alkhidmat Lahore, Sanan Akbar, Head of Alkhidmat Volunteers, and heads of various universities.

Notably, participants encompassed a diverse range of individuals from different walks of life, including students and volunteers, who showcased unwavering enthusiasm for the cause.

Alkhidmat volunteers achieved an extraordinary feat during the programme by planting an astounding 15,000 saplings in just 10 minutes, setting a remarkable record.

Furthermore, the courageous children associated with Alkhidmat's orphan care programme actively participated by planting saplings in memory of their departed fathers.

Attendees also displayed their dedication by naming the saplings after their loved ones, showcasing trees named Arjun, Pulkan, Sikh Chin, Neem, Jamun, Molsari, and Amlatas.

The plantation drive received high praise from attendees, including PHA Director General Tahir Vito.

He commended the Alkhidmat Foundation's laudable efforts, emphasising the significance of their "Smog-Free Lahore" campaign and its alignment with the ongoing battle against climate change.

Vito underscored the crucial role of tree planting in mitigating the adverse effects of climate change and expressed PHA's unwavering commitment to support and maintain the plants planted by Alkhidmat.

Kashf Shah, another prominent figure at the event, warmly welcomed the Alkhidmat Foundation's "Smog-Free Lahore" campaign, recognising it as a significant step towards combating climate change.

Shah expressed hope that the positive impact of this campaign would become apparent in the near future.

Stressing the collective responsibility to ensure a clean and healthy environment for future generations, Shah urged everyone to take decisive steps in this regard.

Sanan Akbar, Head of Alkhidmat Volunteers, outlined the organisation's plans to extend the campaign to colleges and universities, actively promoting and managing tree planting initiatives, including the development of urban forests within their surroundings. By fostering a culture of environmental consciousness among the youth, Alkhidmat aims to engage more individuals in contributing to this noble cause.

With Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan leading the charge, Lahore's "Smog-Free" movement has gained significant momentum, inspiring people from all walks of life to unite in their efforts to combat smog and create a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations.

This compelling news story highlights the ambitious efforts of Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan in combating smog and promoting environmental sustainability in Lahore.

The city's residents have responded with overwhelming support, demonstrating their commitment to creating a greener and healthier Lahore.

The massive turnout of 3,000 volunteers showcases the community's dedication to combating smog and its adverse effects on public health. By planting an astonishing 15,000 saplings in a mere 10 minutes, Alkhidmat volunteers have set an inspiring example for environmental activism.

The impact of the "Smog-Free Lahore" campaign extends beyond the planting of trees. It serves as a catalyst for raising awareness about the urgent need to address climate change and its consequences.

The participation of esteemed figures such as Dr. Mushtaq Mangat and Tahir Watone signifies the importance of this initiative in the eyes of influential leaders.

The collaboration between the Alkhidmat Foundation and the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) underscores the power of collective action in combating environmental challenges.

The PHA's commitment to caring for the planted saplings further strengthens the sustainability of the project. Their joint efforts will undoubtedly contribute to creating a cleaner and healthier environment for Lahoris.

The involvement of children from Alkhidmat's orphan care programme adds a touching and personal dimension to the campaign. By planting saplings in memory of their late fathers, these young participants not only contribute to the urban forest but also honour their loved ones in a meaningful way.

The "Smog-Free Lahore" campaign's positive impact is not limited to this particular event. The Alkhidmat Foundation's plans to expand the initiative to colleges and universities will ensure the engagement of the younger generation. By instilling a sense of responsibility and environmental stewardship in students, Alkhidmat aims to create a lasting legacy of sustainability.

The tremendous support received from attendees and the broader community reflects a collective determination to overcome the challenges posed by smog and climate change.

Alkhidmat Foundation's efforts, in collaboration with PHA and other organisations, demonstrate the power of partnerships in driving impactful change.

As Lahore continues to battle smog, the city's residents stand united in their commitment to a cleaner, healthier, and greener future.