Nepalgunj / A tree plantation program was organized today at Hazrat Community Forest in Ward 23, Nepalgunj. The event was hosted by Clean Up Nepal (Swachha Safa Nepal) with financial support from Standard Chartered Bank Nepal Limited.

Speaking on the occasion, Hement Raj Kaphale, Nepal Planting Director of 8 Billion Trees in Nepal, highlighted that the main objective of the program was not only to raise awareness about environmental conservation but also to help the community understand the importance of a prosperous forest ecosystem. He further emphasized that every tree planted is a step toward securing the future of both people and nature.

The program was chaired by Clean Up Nepal’s Executive Director, Rabindra Lamichhane, with former Minister Mohammad Istiyak Rai as the Chief Guest. Special guests included Nepalgunj Sub-Metropolitan City Mayor Prashant Bista, Lumbini Technical University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Binod Dhakal, Nepali Congress District Secretary Sudhanshu Koirala, Standard Chartered Bank Branch Head Hermes Soni, PABSON Banke President Bikash Bajracharya, PABSON Nagar President Man Bahadur Thapa, Principal of Nepalgunj Model Academy Bijyan Shah, United School Principal Jibraj Bhandari, along with Ward 23 Chairperson, civil society leader Krishna Prasad Shrestha, Lions District Governor Gyanendra Shrestha, Lions Secretary Narendra Shrestha, and over 200 enthusiastic participants including students and local residents.

Addressing the gathering, Executive Director Lamichhane remarked, “Every sapling is a life. It not only protects the environment but also safeguards our future.” Former Minister Rai stressed the need for sustainable forest management and greater community participation at the state level. Mayor Bista expressed the municipality’s commitment to promoting green initiatives at the local level, while other dignitaries underscored the crucial role of collective community involvement in forest conservation.

Hermes Soni, Branch Manager of Standard Chartered Bank, noted that the program’s success reflects the value of private sector involvement, pledging continued collaboration in promoting sustainable forest initiatives. PABSON Banke President also spoke about the urgent need to strengthen awareness on climate change, conservation, and green development.

As part of the campaign, over 2,000 saplings of local species including Mahuwa, Barro, Amla, Siris, Litchi, Guava, and Arjun were planted in the community forest.

This event marks another milestone in the mission of 8 Billion Trees, which continues to support environmental conservation, reforestation, and community-based green initiatives across Nepal and the globe.