Srinagar: Amar Singh College Srinagar, with its resolve to tackle climate change head-on, organized a massive tree plantation drive on Monday.
The initiative was, therefore, undertaken as the first step of a phased endeavor to maximize the green cover within the campus and incorporate unique elements that contribute significantly to the environment.
The focus in the first phase was to plant five hundred mature cedar trees at eleven identified locations.
Leading by example Prof. (Dr) Aijaz Bashir, Nodal Principal Kashmir Division Colleges and Principal Amar Singh College, planted the first tree at the main avenue to kick-start this momentous drive.
Six avenues and five micro forest clusters were established to act as the vital “aeration lungs,” that will contribute to improving air quality and environmental health on campus.
A few intractable patches of land were also converted to micro-forest clusters by the unrelenting spirit of the mentor-mentees.
300 students were designated as green ambassadors, who will look after the trees planted by them during their academic journey in the college.
The initiative witnessed resounding support from the local citizens and civil society. One of the prominent neighbors of the institution Mansoor Ahmad Lone, Chief judicial Magistrate Pulwama, planted the first tree of the micro-forest cluster at the Geography department. He visited the college out of goodwill and supported the initiative.
Other locals also participated actively in the initiative, fostering a sense of community ownership, and ensuring the program’s lasting impact.
The Urban Forestry Division of the Forest, Ecology and Environment Department facilitated the event by providing superior quality trees.