Pakistan Railways, in collaboration with provincial governments, has undertaken large-scale plantation drives along railway tracks across the country to promote environmental sustainability, improve the landscape and combat environmental degradation.
Railways, provincial govts join hands to develop green corridors along railway tracks
ISLAMABAD, Sep 9 (APP):Pakistan Railways, in collaboration with provincial governments, has undertaken large-scale plantation drives along railway tracks across the country to promote environmental sustainability, improve the landscape and combat environmental degradation.
“Under the plantation initiatives, a total of 611,930 plants have been planted alongside railway tracks in different regions of the country,” an official in the Ministry told APP.
He said the plantation drives have not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of railway routes but also contributed to mitigating environmental challenges, including air pollution and soil erosion.
In another major step towards promoting greener railway infrastructure, Pakistan Railways had already signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) Lahore for the development of a green corridor along the railway track from Shahdara to Raiwind, he added.
The official said the project aims to develop green belts, increase green cover, provide safe and accessible recreational facilities and utilize railway land in a manner that supports public welfare.
In the first phase, the official the PHA Lahore will spend Rs300 million on the development of the green corridor along the railway track.
As part of the initiative, he said the landscaping work has already been carried out at Kot Lakhpat Railway Station, reflecting the authorities’ commitment to creating greener and more environmentally friendly surroundings.
Under the project, the official said the PHA Lahore will be responsible for financing the plantation as well as ensuring its security, maintenance and sustainability.
He said Pakistan Railways has also approved and encouraged other provincial governments to collaborate on similar initiatives, with the objective of expanding environmentally beneficial projects to other parts of the country.
The official said the initiative is expected to contribute to a greener railway network while promoting environmental sustainability and improving public spaces along railway corridors.
