Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has encouraged citizens to participate in environmental conservation efforts and mark International Plastic Bag Free Day by adopting eco-friendly alternatives. This global observance, held on July 3, aims to highlight the harmful impact of single-use plastic bags on the environment and marine life. It advocates for the adoption of sustainable, reusable options to combat plastic pollution on a worldwide scale.
In a statement, Chief Minister Gupta emphasized the significance of making sustainable practices a part of daily routines beyond just the designated day. She urged people to carry cloth or jute bags instead of single-use plastic ones and contribute to creating a cleaner, greener, and plastic-free environment in Delhi through individual actions.
As part of the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, CM Gupta launched the Green Drive Portal, aiming to plant 70 lakh saplings throughout Delhi. She called upon all residents to participate in the mass plantation initiative to help build a more environmentally friendly and healthier city. The portal allows citizens to register for the Mega Plantation Drive, become Environmental Saviours, and obtain free saplings from nearby government nurseries by visiting greendrive.delhivanmahotsav.in.
Under the ‘Vriksh Rath’ program, expert teams from the Forest Department will assist in planting trees at homes, schools, residential areas, and other suitable locations by providing free saplings, tools, and technical support. The focus will be on planting native and long-lasting tree species like Peepal, Banyan, Gular, Neem, Arjun, and Jamun. Additionally, the Delhi government plans to establish 100 Oxygen Parks across the city as part of its green initiative.
Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa highlighted that the Green Drive Portal has categorized plantation sites across all 70 Assembly constituencies, enabling citizens to book slots based on their preferred constituency or location. He emphasized the campaign’s broader scope, encouraging the greening of homes, schools, and rooftop gardens wherever feasible.
