133 Eco Task Force takes part in mega sapling plantation drive in Chandigarh
Chandigarh, July 10
In a major push toward urban ecological restoration, the 133 Eco Task Force, operating under the aegis of the TA Group Headquarters Western Command, on Friday, participated in a mega sapling plantation drive at the Daddu Majra dumping ground here.
The initiative was organised as part of the van mahotsav celebration held in close collaboration with the Chandigarh administration.
The environmental drive was officially inaugurated by Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria.
The Daddu Majra dumping ground, historically known for its waste management challenges, became the focal point of a massive environmental reclamation effort.
Driven by this year's national van mahotsav theme "Healing the Earth through Greener Initiatives", the campaign focused heavily on transforming ecological blind spots into vibrant green lungs for the city.
The primary highlights of the sapling plantation event included massive military participation.
Turning the tide against urban pollution, the disciplined personnel of the 133 Eco Task Force successfully planted nearly 4,000 saplings in a single day at four different locations, including the Chandimandir military station.
The drive wasn't limited to defense personnel.
Reflecting the true spirit of a community-driven movement, various administration departments and students from several government schools actively planted saplings alongside the task force.
During the inauguration, Governor Kataria commended the unwavering commitment of the 133 Eco Task Force.
He emphasised that the involvement of Territorial Army units brings a level of structure and long-term nurturing essential for the survival of the newly planted saplings.
"Van Mahotsav is not just a one-day photo opportunity, it is a lifelong commitment to nature," the Governor said.
Highlighting Chandigarh's environmental initiatives, Governor Kataria termed the transformation of the Daddu Majra dumping ground into a green plantation zone as a remarkable example of scientific planning and sustained efforts.
He said the project demonstrated how degraded land could be converted into a valuable green asset for future generations.
Stressing that the success of plantation drives should be measured by the survival rate of trees rather than merely the number planted, Governor Kataria called for scientific plantation, regular monitoring and long-term maintenance.
With the monsoon setting in across the region, the Chandigarh Forest Department and the 133 Eco Task Force have put structural monitoring plans in place to ensure a high survival rate for the 4,000 newly planted saplings.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally, some real action on waste management in Chandigarh! The Daddu Majra area needed this transformation for years. Glad to see the military and students working together—community involvement is key. But let's ensure these saplings get water and care beyond the monsoon too.
Great to see urban reclamation happening in India. The 4,000 saplings in one day is impressive, but the survival rate is what matters. Hope the monitoring plan works well. Also, involving school students is a smart way to build environmental awareness from a young age.
Van Mahotsav is more than just a day event, and I'm glad the Governor stressed that. The transformation of the Daddu Majra dumping ground is a beacon for other cities. But I hope the administration doesn't stop here—regular maintenance and community participation are crucial for long-term success.
This is a textbook example of turning a liability into an asset. The 133 Eco Task Force's structured approach is exactly what urban environmental projects need. The blend of military discipline and community spirit is inspiring. Keep it up, Chandigarh!
Very happy to see such a large-scale plantation drive in Chandigarh! The involvement of students is especially heartening—they are the future caretakers of these trees. My only suggestion: please also plant native species that support local biodiversity, not just ornamental ones.
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