Varanasi: UP govt will create special forests to tackle the challenge of rising temperature and heat wave spells with the proposed ‘Mission Chhaya’ as part of Plantation Mahaabhiyan-2026. Objective is not only to plant saplings, but to prepare a safe, green and cool environment for future generations. The total plantation target for Varanasi district is 15,33,240 under the large-scale plantation campaign for the year 2026-27, involving forest and other departments. The setting up of special forests is proposed to in Jul. In past few years, average temperature of cities has been increasing during summers and there have been more heat waves. Its effect is being felt particularly in cities, where due to growing concrete structures and reduction in green areas, temperature is recorded higher than normal. Forest department has planned large-scale plantation of shade-giving trees. Divisional forest officer Swati Srivastava said under Mission Chhaya, shade-providing saplings will be planted along roadsides, public places, parks, schools, govt premises and other suitable locations. Along with this, common citizens will also be motivated to plant shade-giving saplings in available empty spaces in their homes etc. She said forest department will give priority to saplings of peepal, bargad, pakad, gular, mango, neem, siras, kadamb and such varieties of shade-giving trees, which also play important role in environmental conservation, biodiversity enhancement and air purification. Through these, the local ecosystem will also be strengthened. Large and shade-giving trees prove effective in controlling temperature in urban areas. Greenery of trees helps maintain moisture in environment, reduce dust and pollution and provide natural cool relief to people.
