PHA plants Date Palm across City

LAHORE:The Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has planted hundreds of canariensis palm trees across Lahore to beautify the City’s landscape and absorb carbon dioxide, a spokesperson announced on Thursday.

The canariensis, commonly known as the Canary Island Date Palm, is a slow-growing evergreen tree. It has a sturdy trunk and a rounded crown made up of around 100 elegant, arching green fronds, giving it a majestic appearance.

Botany experts note that this palm tree can also help to lower air temperatures and reduce pollution caused by industrial activities. Its symmetrical shape further contributes to its environmental benefits.

The spokesperson added that the Parks and Horticulture Authority has planted over 650 canariensis palm trees along Lahore’s major roads, including Chauburji Chowk, MAO College Road, GT Road, Faisal Town and Gulberg boulevards, Maulana Shaukat Ali Road, and Raiwind Road.

In addition to pollution control, these palm trees, which stand between four and six feet tall, are renowned for their tall trunks and long, feathery leaves, which give landscapes a tropical flair. The leaves are also commonly used in flower arrangements and bouquets.

The Parks and Horticulture Authority is not only focused on enhancing Lahore’s aesthetic appeal but also aims to reduce the City’s carbon footprint through large-scale tree planting initiatives. Last year, the department planted over a million trees across the City, particularly in remote areas.

This year, the target has been increased to 25 million trees under the Punjab government’s directive. ‘The Parks and Horticulture Authority’s commitment to Lahore’s ecological well-being goes hand-in-hand with its mission to create a more livable and aesthetically pleasing City. The ongoing plantation drive is being complemented by regular maintenance of existing greenbelts, parks, and public spaces,’ the spokesperson added.