Progress on environmental improvement, afforestation reviewed in Dera region

DERA ISMAIL KHAN, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 16th Apr, 2026) A meeting of the divisional coordination committee under the 'Recharge Pakistan' initiative was held to review matters relating to environmental improvement in the area.

Commissioner Dera division, Daud Khan chaired the meeting which was attended by officials from various departments and project stakeholders, discussing

promotion of forests, and measures to address climate change.

During the meeting, progress on the afforestation campaign for the year 2025–26 was reviewed.

Discussions were also held on the identification and screening of new forest sites.

The commissioner directed that the process of signing Forest TOPs (Agreements with landowners) be expedited to ensure timely achievement of plantation targets.

Emphasis was also placed on improving the watch and ward data system and strengthening monitoring mechanisms.

The Irrigation department briefed the participants on ongoing projects and future plans, while the agriculture department highlighted its initiatives for the welfare and support of farmers.

The meeting also discussed the current status of training for extension agents, planning for Farmer Field Schools, and the organization of training sessions for farmers. Commissioner Daud Khan reviewed overall progress in Dera Ismail Khan, Tank, Upper South Waziristan, and Lower South Waziristan, and directed the relevant officials to ensure timely completion and transparent implementation of projects.

He stressed that adopting an integrated strategy for environmental protection and forest promotion was the need of the hour.

The meeting also underscored that sustainable development is not possible without the involvement of local communities, and called for making public awareness campaigns more effective.

The participants reaffirmed their commitment to achieving the targets of the Recharge Pakistan project through mutual cooperation.

The commissioner instructed all departments to strengthen coordination and present clear progress reports in the next meeting to ensure the successful attainment of environmental improvement goals in the division.

APP/slm