Way behind of its target, with less than half of the planned 513,000 saplings planted
Punjab’s “Plant for Pakistan” campaign has failed to meet its targets at brick kilns, exposing gaps in planning and implementation across the province.
The Environment Department had aimed to plant 513,000 saplings at more than 4,000 kilns, but the Spring 2025 report shows just over 200,000 were actually planted. Most districts fell short of half their targets.
In Rawalpindi, only 1,100 saplings were planted out of 9,000, while Kasur managed 25,000 of 37,000. Multan recorded just 1,715 of 28,000, and Faisalabad performed best with 28,000 planted against a 32,000 target. Lahore’s figures were not specified in the report.
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Forest and wildlife expert Badr Munir said, “The most effective and long-term solution to air pollution is extensive tree plantation. Unfortunately, the EPA formulates policies but fails to ensure their implementation, resulting in the absence of desired outcomes.”
Dr. Saadia Khalid, professor of environmental sciences, said, “The failure to meet targets reflects a clear lack of coordination between departments and local communities. EPA rules mandate plantation at fuel stations, but staff have been unable to enforce this.”
Brick kiln owners claim they are trying on their own.
Mehar Abdul Haq, acting chairman of the Brick Kiln Owners Association, said, “Environmental improvement remains our top priority. Kiln owners are carrying out plantation drives without any support from the EPA. Lack of space and other challenges have hindered efforts, but the campaign will continue.”
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Workers at kilns near Lahore said trees provide shade and clean air. Fakir Hussain said, “Trees give us shade and clean air,” while Haleema Bibi added they provide a place to rest and let children play safely.
Experts warn that falling short of targets undermines Punjab’s efforts to reduce air pollution and improve ecological balance, especially since brick kilns are major contributors to deteriorating air quality
