Thousands plant saplings in Prayagraj as city celebrates Environ Day

Prayagraj: The city marked World Environment Day with plantation drives, awareness campaigns and sustainability pledges across government institutions, educational campuses and public organisations, as thousands joined the nationwide ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ initiative to promote environmental conservation.Leading the celebrations, Uttar Pradesh cabinet minister Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’ participated in a mega plantation drive at the municipal corporation-developed Smriti Vatika in Dadri, Naini. Planting a sapling under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, he urged citizens to not only plant trees but also ensure their long-term care and protection.The Central Organisation for Railway Electrification (CORE) also observed the day with a special environmental awareness programme. Officials took the “Now for Climate” pledge, committing themselves to immediate action for environmental protection. Principal Chief Engineer J.C. Chaurasia planted a sapling at the CORE headquarters and called upon employees to contribute actively towards increasing green cover amid rising temperatures.At the University of Allahabad, the Centre for Environmental Studies organised a plantation drive and awareness programme under the theme, “Inspired by Nature, for the Climate, for Our Future.” Guided by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Sangita Srivastava, the programme focused on promoting environmental responsibility among students and faculty members. Registrar Prof. Ashish Khare planted a sapling at Meghnad Saha Garden on the Senate Campus, while a similar drive was held at the Department of Geography.Adding a creative dimension to the celebrations, Bal Bhawan organised a series of environmental activities for children to spread awareness about nature conservation, sustainable living and the importance of protecting the environment from an early age.