Paras Health & Kashmir Concern plant 50 Chinars, 700 trees across 5 schools and polytechnic college in Ganderbal

STC NEWS DESK
Srinagar, April 04, 2026 – In a significant step toward combating air pollution and restoring the valley’s green legacy, Paras Health, Srinagar, in collaboration with Kashmir Concern (NGO) today extended their flagship initiative “Green Campus for Clean Air” to District Ganderbal.
A large-scale plantation drive was conducted across five government schools and the Government Polytechnic College, Ganderbal. A total of 50 iconic Chinar trees – the ecological and cultural symbol of Kashmir – were planted, alongside hundreds of other native saplings including fruit-bearing and shade-giving species.
The drive witnessed active participation from students, faculty members, environmental volunteers, and healthcare officials, all united by the shared goal of creating cleaner, greener educational campuses which include Reyan Public school , River Hill Education Institute ,Government Middle School Hakeem Gund ,Government Polythenic Ganderbal and other 2 .
Dr. Touseef Bhat, Chairman of Kashmir Concern, who spearheaded the drive, said: “The Chinar is not just a tree; it is a living heritage of Kashmir. By planting 50 Chinars in Ganderbal’s educational institutions, we are investing in clean air for future generations. This initiative will continue across all districts of Kashmir in close collaboration with Paras Health, Dalgate. Our joint mission is to make every campus a green lung for the community.”
Echoing the sentiment, a spokesperson from Paras Health, Dalgate stated: “Air quality directly impacts respiratory and cardiac health. Through ‘Green Campus for Clean Air,’ we are addressing the root cause of rising pollution-related illnesses. Our partnership with Kashmir Concern reflects our commitment to preventive healthcare beyond hospital walls.”
Local school principals and polytechnic staff welcomed the move, noting that the newly planted trees would provide shade, improve microclimates, and serve as living classrooms for environmental education.
The “Green Campus for Clean Air” initiative, launched earlier this year, has already covered several districts in Kashmir. With the Ganderbal leg now complete, Dr. Touseef Bhat confirmed that similar drives are being planned for Budgam, Baramulla, and Anantnag in the coming weeks.
(Straight Talk Communications)