By Molla Jasimuddin
Kolkata, June 5: Amid rising temperatures and growing concerns over climate change across West Bengal and the rest of India, Kolkata Police marked World Environment Day with a grand tree plantation drive at the Police Training School (PTS) premises near SSKM Hospital on Friday morning.
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from a large number of senior police officials and personnel, underscoring the force’s commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Leading the initiative were senior officers of Kolkata Police, including Additional Commissioner of Police D.P. Singh, Shubhankar Sinha Sarkar, Santosh Pandey, and several other distinguished officials. The programme commenced with the symbolic planting of saplings, followed by the distribution of various species of young trees among police personnel to encourage wider participation in greening efforts.
Speaking on the occasion, Additional Commissioner D.P. Singh emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility and collective action in combating climate change.
«“If we want clean oxygen and a healthy environment for future generations, every individual must take the responsibility of planting and nurturing trees,” he said.»
The observance comes at a time when extreme heatwaves and environmental degradation are posing serious challenges across the country. Experts have repeatedly highlighted indiscriminate tree felling and shrinking green cover as major contributors to global warming and ecological imbalance.
The programme also aligned with the state government’s broader environmental initiatives. Authorities highlighted the ongoing efforts to expand green cover across West Bengal through plantation drives along national and state highways, residential areas, and public spaces.
Preparations are already underway for the upcoming Van Mahotsav (Forest Week), scheduled to be observed from July 14 to July 20, during which large-scale afforestation campaigns will be carried out across the state.
The World Environment Day celebration by Kolkata Police reflected a strong message of environmental stewardship, community participation, and the urgent need to protect natural resources in the face of escalating climate challenges.
