Tree plantation essential to combat climate change, health hazards: Tariq Ali Shah

ABBOTTABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 11th May, 2026) Conservator Range Management Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Syed Tariq Ali Shah, has said that tree plantation and public health are closely interconnected, as environmental pollution has become one of the leading causes of modern-day health problems.

He stressed that increasing temperatures due to climate change make quality plantation and the development of green areas around buildings indispensable.

The conservative expressed these views while addressing a tree plantation campaign organized at the Women and Children Hospital Abbottabad under environment-friendly initiatives.

During the campaign, saplings of deodar, pine, and thuja were planted in the hospital’s green area to promote a healthy and pollution-free environment.

Doctors, members of the student organization“Shelter of Hope,” and social personalities actively participated in the plantation drive. Among those present on the occasion were Medical Superintendent of Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Teaching Hospital, Dr. Aamir Israr, DMS Women and Children Hospital Dr. Iram Siddiq, Bakhtawar Mohmand, Ajmal Waheed Khushi, Idris Awan Advocate, Tanveer Tanoli, and others.

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Speaking at the ceremony, Syed Tariq Ali Shah said that landscaping is a globally recognized practice and natural surroundings in hospitals provide mental peace, freshness, and a sense of comfort to patients. He added that under government policy, one percent of environmentally friendly construction and renovation projects has been allocated for tree plantation, and strict implementation of this policy is essential.

Dr. Aamir Israr said that a natural environment plays a significant role in the speedy recovery of patients. Dr. Iram Siddiq stated that providing a healthy atmosphere in the hospital is their top priority and urged citizens to take care of plants and maintain cleanliness.

She added that besides staff, services, and modern medical equipment, a natural environment also has an important role in improving patient well-being.

Bakhtawar Mohmand of Shelter of Hope said that planting more trees is the need of the hour to eliminate pollution and create a pleasant environment.