Akal Seva Foundation moves to preserve Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s legacy

In a significant step towards environmental conservation and heritage preservation, the Akal Seva Foundation has launched a plantation drive outside the historic Summer Palace located within Ram Bagh garden, associated with the legendary Sikh ruler Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

The initiative was formally inaugurated with the planting of 10 saplings, including varieties such as kaner, bottle king, red rose, orange rose, pink rose, white rose, morpankhi, neem, amla, mulberry (toot), shahtoot, ber and peepal. The drive aims to enhance the greenery and aesthetic appeal of the heritage site while contributing to environmental sustainability.

Speaking on the occasion, Akal Seva Foundation president Harpal Singh Randhawa, along with social worker and environmentalist Sarabjit Singh Sonu, alias Sonu Jandiala, said the plantation campaign is being carried out in coordination with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). They informed that the ASI has granted permission to plant 10,000 saplings in the area.

Members of the foundation further stated that after obtaining approval from the municipal corporation, they plan to plant an additional 10,000 heritage trees within Ram Bagh. The objective is not only to beautify parks and public spaces but also to protect and preserve centuries-old trees that are gradually disappearing.

They emphasised that, in collaboration with civic authorities and the administration, consistent efforts would be made to safeguard the historical legacy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and maintain the green cover of the region for future generations.

Earlier, the organisation had raised serious concerns over the deteriorating condition of several century-old trees in the historic garden linked to Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Representatives of the foundation met officials of the municipal corporation and the district administration, urging them to adopt scientific methods for the preservation and conservation of these heritage trees. They stressed the need for expert assessment, proper soil treatment, disease management, structural support and regular monitoring to ensure that these invaluable natural assets are protected for generations to come.