Synergetic Green Warriors Foundation Launches Mega Plantation Drive at RTO Trial Ground, Kot Bhalwal to Promote Green Infrastructure

Jammu, August 3: Reinforcing its commitment towards environmental conservation and sustainable development, Synergetic Green Warriors Foundation (SGWF) organized a Mega Plantation Drive at the Regional Transport Office (RTO) Trial Ground, Kot Bhalwal, Jammu. The initiative was aimed at transforming the trial ground into a lush green landscape that will serve as a source of shade, cleaner air, biodiversity conservation, and environmental awareness for thousands of people visiting the facility every year.

The plantation programme was led by Dr. Sonia Verma, Managing Director, Synergetic Green Warriors Foundation, in the presence of Ms. Sabita Jamwal, General Secretary, SGWF, Sh. Rajesh Gupta, Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO), Jammu, Rakesh, Rahul, officers and officials of the Regional Transport Office, volunteers of SGWF, and members of the plantation team.

A large number of medicinal, ornamental, avenue, shade-bearing and fruit-bearing tree species were planted across the trial ground. The selected species included plants known for their ecological, medicinal, nutritional and aesthetic value, ensuring long-term environmental benefits while enhancing the beauty of the campus. The plantation was carefully planned to create green corridors, resting zones and natural shade around the driving test area.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sonia Verma said that trees are the foundation of a healthy ecosystem and are indispensable for combating climate change, reducing air pollution, conserving biodiversity and improving the quality of life. She observed that every mature tree acts as a natural air purifier, carbon sink and temperature regulator. She added that the plantation at the RTO Trial Ground is not merely an event but the beginning of a long-term commitment to develop the premises into a model green public facility.

Dr. Verma further stated that thousands of driving licence applicants visit the trial ground throughout the year and, once established, the trees will provide extensive shade and create a cooler and healthier environment for applicants, staff members and visitors. She urged every citizen to plant and protect trees, emphasizing that environmental conservation is a shared responsibility.

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Sabita Jamwal, General Secretary, SGWF, highlighted that plantation drives should focus not only on increasing green cover but also on ensuring the survival and maintenance of saplings. She said that the inclusion of fruit-bearing trees would provide seasonal fruits for visitors and birds, while medicinal plants would help promote awareness about traditional herbal resources. Ornamental species would further enhance the aesthetic appeal of the campus, making it more welcoming and environmentally vibrant.

Sh. Rajesh Gupta, ARTO Jammu, appreciated the efforts of Synergetic Green Warriors Foundation in undertaking this meaningful initiative. He remarked that the plantation drive would significantly improve the environmental conditions of the trial ground by reducing heat, minimizing dust, improving air quality and creating a pleasant atmosphere for the large number of candidates appearing for driving tests every day. He assured that the RTO Jammu team would extend full support for the protection, regular watering and maintenance of the planted saplings to ensure their healthy growth and survival.

The officials and volunteers jointly planted numerous saplings and reiterated their commitment towards protecting the environment. Members of the RTO Jammu team actively participated in the plantation campaign, demonstrating their dedication towards creating a greener workplace and public service facility.

The programme concluded with an appeal to educational institutions, government departments, NGOs and citizens to adopt environmentally responsible practices and actively participate in plantation drives. The participants also took a pledge to nurture every planted sapling until it becomes a mature tree, recognizing that tree plantation is one of the most effective investments for ensuring ecological security and a sustainable future.

Synergetic Green Warriors Foundation has been consistently working towards environmental protection through large-scale afforestation programmes, biodiversity conservation, environmental education, eco-club formation, awareness campaigns, composting initiatives and community participation across Jammu and Kashmir. The Foundation reaffirmed its resolve to continue such green initiatives in collaboration with government departments and local communities to build a cleaner, healthier and climate-resilient society