Making the most of recent rains and beautiful weather in Islamabad, friends of trees gathered to celebrate connection with Mother Nature by planting almost 60 saplings of indigenous specie in the shadows of Margalla Hills.
The plantation was arranged by Rotary Club Islamabad Renaissance (RCIR) in collaboration with Development Authority (CDA) to support the city administration’s efforts of keeping Islamabad green and beautiful. Along with the planting, a centuries old banyan was also declared protected by RCIR which decided to look after the tree and develop the area around it for family picnics.
Kids and adults both were seen gladly busy planting saplings all over the slopes with the help of CDA maalis (gardeners). Lovely weather with soft breeze added energy to the planting activity that took place in E-11 green belt at a site adorned by an ancient and magnificent Banyan tree. The chief guest of the event was Ms. Fauzia Minallah, an artist and author, better known for her passion and persistent efforts for preservation of natural areas in and around Islamabad. Expressing her profound love for Banyan trees, Ms. Minallah appreciated the efforts of citizens playing their role for making their city beautiful.
Kids found the activity both fun and enlightening. Parents were of the view that involving kids in such an activity is important as it encourages little ones to learn about nature by planting and caring for trees while having fun.
CDA representatives including Managing Deputy Director, Mr Aulya Khan, Ms. Javeria Maqbool Environment Education Officer and Mr. Wajid, and Member Engineering CDA, Mr.Sanaullah participated also the event. Mona Mahmood, President of Innerwheel Rotary Club, believed that the gesture of plantation, though small, indicated that the people of capital city are keen to play their role in keeping Islamabad green and beautiful.