On February 17, the Capital Development Authority (CDA), in collaboration with the National Press Club (NPC), initiated the Spring Tree Plantation Campaign 2026 on Tuesday. The campaign aims to plant one million environment-friendly trees across Islamabad to enhance the city’s green cover and promote environmental sustainability.
The launch event was attended by Muhammad Ali Randhawa, Chairman of the CDA and Chief Commissioner of Islamabad, along with Afzal Butt, President of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Nayyar Ali, Secretary General of the NPC, Waqar Abbasi, Finance Secretary, other governing body members, and a large group of journalists. The participants planted saplings at a site opposite the National Press Club.
During his address to the media, Randhawa highlighted the use of modern technology in this year’s campaign, marking a first in Islamabad’s efforts to green the city. The initiative includes a digital tree census and the application of QR codes on trees, which will record detailed botanical information, exact locations, and details about the individuals and institutions involved in the planting.
Randhawa also mentioned ongoing environmental initiatives such as using seed balls in the Margalla Hills National Park to aid natural regeneration. He announced the launch of a dedicated route for environment-friendly electric buses for journalists, complete with modern digital bus stops, emphasizing collective responsibility toward environmental protection.
PFUJ President Afzal Butt praised the CDA’s initiative and confirmed the journalist community’s active support for the campaign. Nayyar Ali also reaffirmed the media community’s commitment to participating in and maintaining the planted trees.
Finance Secretary Waqar Abbasi highlighted the replacement of paper mulberry trees with more environmentally friendly species in Islamabad. He encouraged journalists to help raise public awareness about the plantation campaign’s importance.
Officials stated that the campaign is crucial for increasing Islamabad’s green cover, improving environmental sustainability, and enhancing the city’s overall natural beauty.
