Vanmahotsav Commemoration and Celebration of Saving Mattewara Jungles Commence with Community Plantation Drive

PRESS RELEASE

Vanmahotsav Commemoration and Celebration of Saving Mattewara Jungles Commence with Community Plantation Drive

Mattewara, Ludhiana | 01 July 2026

The commemorative celebrations of Vanmahotsav and the anniversary of the successful people’s movement to save the Mattewara Jungles commenced today with devotion, environmental commitment and community participation.

The programme began with the recitation of Shri Sukhmani Sahib Paath, followed by Ardaas, seeking the blessings of the Almighty for the protection of nature and the success of the ongoing environmental conservation mission.

The plantation drive was formally inaugurated by planting a native tree sapling on the Dhussi Bundh near Gurdwara Sahib, symbolising the collective resolve to strengthen Punjab’s green cover, conserve biodiversity and protect the ecological heritage of the Mattewara Jungles.

As a mark of respect, all participants observed two minutes of silence and paid heartfelt tributes to Late Shri Suresh Malhan Ji, the victims of the Giaspura Tragedy, and the countless unknown victims who have suffered due to water and air pollution. The gathering resolved to continue working towards a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable environment in their memory.

Participants expressed great satisfaction on witnessing the healthy growth of the native saplings planted during Vanmahotsav 2025, demonstrating that community participation and dedicated care can successfully restore degraded ecosystems. The PAC conveyed its sincere appreciation to the Ranger and Forest Department Team, Mattewara, for their continuous support in nurturing the plantation.

Subsequently, members of the Public Action Committee (PAC) conducted a detailed reconnaissance of the new plantation site at Plot No. 19, Mattewara Jungles, and finalised the action plan for the plantation campaign scheduled from 02 July to 04 July 2026, between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The activities will include site preparation, plantation of indigenous tree species, watering, mulching and protection of newly planted saplings.

The PAC also finalised plans for the next phase of the plantation drive near Hyder Jungle, which will be undertaken on 05 and 06 July 2026, further expanding the ecological restoration programme in the area.

The Public Action Committee has appealed to all sections of society—including NGOs, environmental organisations, educational institutions, industries, Panchayats, farmers, youth, women, children, resident welfare associations, religious organisations, professionals and concerned citizens—to actively participate in this people’s movement for environmental conservation.

“Every native tree planted today is a commitment towards cleaner air, healthier rivers, richer biodiversity and a secure future for the coming generations. Together, let us strengthen our resolve to protect the Mattewara Jungles, River Satluj and the natural heritage of Punjab.”

Issued in Public Interest

Col CM Lakhanpal
Member, Public Action Committee (PAC)
Mattewara Jungles, River Satluj & Buddha Darya, Ludhiana.
Mobile: 94171 38044.

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