Kotshera students plant saplings

Rajiv Gandhi Government College (Kotshera), Chaura Maidan, Shimla, conducted a plantation drive under the aegis of the Disaster Management Cell. This initiative was taken in collaboration with the Forest Department to sensitise students about the importance of tree plantation in river catchment areas.

The programme was conducted under the guidance of Dr Vibha Saraswati, convenor of the Disaster Management Committee, along with members Dr Kanika Lakhanpal and Dr Dhanisha Negi.

The plantation drive took place in the Glen area of Shimla, which falls under the catchment zone of the Ashwani Khad, a tributary that merges into the Sutlej. “Keeping such catchment areas green and healthy is essential to prevent soil erosion, enhance groundwater recharge and improve the overall health of river systems,” said the experts.