CM Sukhu on World Environment Day called for making environmental protection a mass movement, stressing collective responsibility to safeguard natural resources.
Addressing a gathering at the Ridge, he said Himachal Pradesh, known as the “Lungs of North India,” plays a key ecological role and contributes major environmental services, though it receives inadequate compensation.
He urged people to adopt tree plantation, water conservation and reduced plastic use, warning that climate change and rising disasters have made environmental protection urgent. He also reiterated the target of increasing forest cover to 32% by 2030 through various plantation and green initiatives.
Highlighting environmental reforms, the CM said 297 electric buses will be added to HRTC’s fleet and biochar plants will be set up to reduce forest fires and manage biomass waste.
On drug abuse, he said the fight against “chitta” has become a public movement and warned that the drug mafia will be completely crushed, adding that strict action is underway against offenders.
Earlier, the Chief Minister administered a pledge on environmental protection and anti-drug awareness, and honoured winners of environmental awards and mini marathon participants.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
