Forest Restoration Initiative at Namal University

BIPP has undertaken a forest restoration initiative at Namal University, spearheaded by Mr. Faisal Haroon, Consultant Agroforestry at BIPP. This initiative focuses on restoring the scrub dry subtropical broad-leaved forest, one of Punjab’s seven key forest ecosystems, native to the Potohar Plateau and Salt Range. The project site, located in the Salt Range hill tract surrounding Namal University, is characterized by a harsh climate, prolonged droughts, and limited rainfall. These conditions have led to sparse vegetation and degraded forest cover. To address this, BIPP has initiated the plantation of around 500 xerophytic species such as phulahi (Acacia modesta), kikar (Vachellia nilotica), and ber (Ziziphus mauritiana) using slope, trough, and pit planting techniques designed for dry afforestation and efficient rainwater harvesting. Initial germination outcomes are promising, indicating potential for the successful revival of this endangered ecosystem. Protection from grazing and trampling remains critical, with local community engagement being actively pursued to ensure long-term sustainability and ecological resilience.