Forest Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak Stresses Duty to Protect Environment for Future Generations

Chandigarh:The Punjab Government led by the Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann is fully committed to protecting the environment for the sake of future generations. Hence, steps must be taken in this regard at the grassroots level. This was disclosed by the Forest and Wildlife Preservation Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak during a meeting at Forest Complex in Sector 68 to review the development works of the department.

Reiterating the commitment of the State Government to ensure a clean and green Punjab, the Minister said that the 'Van Mittar' scheme should be given further boost as it leads to providing job opportunities to the people as well as protecting and taking care of the saplings. As far as the plantation of the saplings is concerned, it should preferably be done at the places having boundary walls so as to make sure that there is no danger to them, said the Minister adding that such places can be Educational institutions, Rural dispensaries, Aam Aadmi Clinics (AACs).

Expressing satisfaction at the beautified look of the Phagwara - Chandigarh road, the Minister emphasized more plantation of saplings on the Ludhiana - Chandigarh road. He also exhorted the officers to speed up the mechanism of providing NoCs with regard to various projects. Besides, he emphasized that the 'Nanak Bagichi' and 'Pavittar Van' initiatives should be given further impetus. 

On the occasion, the Minister was apprised that plantation on link roads in the rural areas is also under consideration. It was also brought to the notice of the Minister that the task of providing toilets in all the nurseries of the State would be completed this year. 

Among others present on the occasion included the Financial Commissioner (Forests) Krishan Kumar, PCCF R.K. Mishra and Additional PCCF Saurav Gupta.