Plant trees for pollution free environment, J

Srinagar, Mar 28 (UNI) Concerned over increase in air pollution in Jammu and Kashmir, Minister for Forests and Environment Qazi Mohammad Afzal has stressed upon industrialists to undertake massive tree plantation in and around their premises to save the environment.

''Trees are the best natural air-cleaners and effective weapon against pollution,'' the minister said at a tree plantation function, organised by the State Pollution Control Board.

He appealed to the people in general and industrialists and students in particular to contribute in the environmental protection efforts.

The theme of the function was ''Trees, the best natural air-cleaners,'' which was attended by a large number of dignitaries, officers of forests and its allied departments, NGOs and more than 300 students of the Institute of Hotel Management and other schools of the valley.

Mr Qazi asked the authorities concerned to create awareness among the general masses about the importance of plantation.

He said protection of forests and preservation of water and other natural resources hold the key in sustaining the ecological balance.

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