Dehradun: The folk festival Harela was celebrated across Dehradun district with great enthusiasm, reinforcing the commitment to protect the environment. Inspired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami and under the guidance of District Magistrate Savin Bansal, this year’s Harela was observed with the theme “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (A tree in the name of mother), leading to a large-scale plantation drive under the aegis of the Forest Department.
Extending his wishes on the occasion, District Magistrate Savin Bansal said that Harela is not merely a festival but a symbol of our deep bond with nature and our collective responsibility towards preserving the environment. He added that the festival inspires everyone to increase green cover and maintain ecological balance.
Divisional Forest Officer informed that a target of planting 2 lakh saplings was set in the district on the first day itself. With active participation of the department and the public across all development blocks, over 2.13 lakh saplings were planted under this massive plantation campaign. Participants also took an oath to care for and protect the planted saplings, pledging to safeguard the environment.
He further informed that under the direction of the District Magistrate, the plantation campaign is being carried out extensively across the district. Citizens have been appealed to plant one tree in the name of their mother during the month-long Harela festival and ensure its care and protection.
