JASWANT SINGH GANDAM / RAMAN NEHRA
India Post News Service
PHAGWARA: In order to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev in a befitting manner, Punjab Public Works Department and Education Minister Vijay Inder Singla September 4 started the plantation of 2500 traditional (Desi) mango trees along the GT Road from Phillaur to Phagwara, an official press note said.
Addressing a gathering in a simple and impressive function, the Minister, who planted the saplings here September 4, said that these plants have been procured especially from Mango Research Center of Punjab Agriculture University (PAU) at Dasuya.
He said that these saplings are of Desi Mango’s various varieties and will be planted in the both sides of GT Road.
Singla said that the PWD will ensure the trees’ proper upkeep and the saplings will be planted in a specially bamboo tree guard for protection.
The Minister said that already the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, has started massive plantation drive in the state dedicated to the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder 0of the Sikh faith.
He added that this drive will be a real tribute to Guru Nanak Dev as he himself was an ardent nature lover and advocated nature in his writings.
Singla said that Guru Nanak’a eternal message, ‘Pawan Guru Pani Pita Mata Dharat Mahatt’, will be spread in the district to secure the environment besides ensuring ecological balance by planting trees.
He said that the plantation will increase the green cover in the district and check pollution.
Speaking to reporters, he said that the state government has approved Rs 3,000 crore for two-phased special repair programs of all roads which will start from September 15.
Singla said that the state government was committed to holistic development of the state and prosperity of its people. He said that no stone would be left unturned for making Punjab a frontrunner state in the country.
On the occasion, Phillaur SDM Rajesh Kumar Sharma, Chief Engineer North PWD (B&R) Arun Kumar, Superintendent Engineer T.R. Khatnoria, and Executive Engineer Kamal Nayan were present among others.
