Mohali's Retired Seniors Champion Environmental Revival Through Daily Tree Planting
In the bustling city of Mohali, a quiet yet relentless movement is taking root, led by a band of senior citizens who are dedicating their retirement years to greening the planet. As former Punjab DIG Inderjit Singh Sidhu receives national acclaim with a Padma Shri for his cleanliness crusade in Chandigarh, this group of eco-warriors in Mohali is earning local admiration for their unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. Every morning, from 8 am onwards, these seniors can be found in the fields, planting new saplings and nurturing old ones, embodying a spirit of hope and action for a sustainable future.
A Family United by Green Goals
The Eco Plantation Association in Sector 69 serves as the heart of this initiative, bringing together like-minded individuals who share a deep concern for nature. Ramesh Kumar Singh, a 70-year-old retired superintending engineer, expresses the group's collective joy over Sidhu's Padma Shri, stating, "We are extremely happy. It feels as if one of us has been awarded." This sense of unity extends beyond environmental issues, with members like Harmesh Singh Matharu, 67, highlighting their familial bonds by celebrating occasions like Lohri together in Patiala. The group's foundation is built on harmony, both within their diverse backgrounds and with the earth they strive to protect.
From Solitary Efforts to a Thriving Community
The journey began with Hari Ram Shimar, a 71-year-old retired bank manager, who single-handedly planted 300 saplings in his neighbourhood from 2017 to 2019. His dedication attracted others, leading to the formal registration of the Eco Plantation Association in 2021. President Malkiat Singh, 70, reports that the association has now planted an impressive 14,000 saplings, driven by the urgent need to address India's deforestation crisis. With a WhatsApp group of 70-80 members, daily participation includes 14-15 active volunteers, such as Baljit Kaur, a 69-year-old insurance agent, and Tanvir Singh, a 50-year-old software engineer who injects youthful energy into the team.
Daily Routines and Innovative Solutions
These dedicated seniors start their days early, working from 8 am to 10.30 am with a tea break at 9 am. Their activities include planting new trees, maintaining older ones, and managing a herbal park in Sector 69 with 21 different herbs. To enhance their efforts, Ramesh Kumar Singh donated his Hyundai Accent car, which was ingeniously modified with a 500-litre tanker for watering plants. The group has also acquired a second-hand tractor through collective contributions, and they recently secured Rs 3 lakh from the MP Local Area Development fund for a larger 4,000-litre tanker, easing summer watering challenges.
Recognition and Impact on Mohali's Environment
Mohali Mayor Amarjit Singh Sidhu honoured the group this Republic Day, praising their selfless service and contrasting them with NGOs that may have vested interests. Environmentalist Om Parkash also commended their work, noting that Punjab's high pollution levels and declining green cover make such initiatives crucial. The group's message is clear: "Trees are very important for our planet. We should plant more and more of them to ensure a pollution-free future," as emphasized by Malkiat Singh. Their efforts not only beautify Mohali but also inspire broader community action towards environmental sustainability.
