30,000 Saplings Planted for Bairo Forest Project in Laghman

Provincial officials in Laghman have announced the planting of 30,000 saplings in the Badiabad area of Mehtarlam to establish the Bairo forest. The environmental initiative covers approximately 18,000 hectares and was implemented with financial and technical support from the United Nations Development Programme.

Sardar Ziar, media officer for the Laghman Provincial Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock, confirmed that the project was completed at a total cost of 10.78 million Afghanis. In addition to the tree planting, the development phase included the construction of a dedicated water well and a solar-powered grid. The provincial agriculture directorate indicated that the solar grid will operate the pumping system for the well, ensuring consistent water delivery during dry months.

Ziar noted that the Bairo forest is intended to restore degraded land and improve regional environmental conditions. He emphasized that the expanded vegetation will help mitigate seasonal flooding and reduce air pollution in nearby settlements.

Local residents have welcomed the project, citing its anticipated ecological and economic benefits. Community members indicated that the restored forest area could create favorable conditions for beekeeping and honey production, offering a sustainable livelihood for local families. Provincial authorities stated that continued oversight and community involvement will be necessary to ensure the long-term survival of the newly planted trees.