New Delhi, July 3 (IANS) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday called upon citizens to join environment conservation and observe International Plastic Bag Free Day by switching to green options.

International Plastic Bag Free Day, observed globally on July 3, raises awareness about the severe environmental and marine impacts of single-use plastic bags. It promotes sustainable, reusable alternatives to reduce global plastic pollution.

In a message on X, the Chief Minister said, “On International Plastic Bag Free Day, let us take a pledge that is not limited to just today, but becomes a part of our everyday habits.”

“Carry a cloth or jute bag when stepping out of the house, avoid using single-use plastic bags entirely, and contribute to building a clean, green, and plastic-free Delhi through your small efforts,” said CM Rekha Gupta.

Earlier in the day, CM Gupta launched the Green Drive Portal under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign, reaffirming the government’s commitment to planting 70 lakh saplings across the national capital.

Launching the initiative, the Chief Minister urged every Delhiite to become part of the mass plantation drive and contribute towards building a greener, cleaner, and healthier Delhi.

Through the portal, citizens can book slots for the Mega Plantation Drive, register as an Environmental Saviour, and reserve free saplings from the nearest government nursery by visiting greendrive.delhivanmahotsav.in.

Under the ‘Vriksh Rath’ initiative, expert teams from the Forest Department will facilitate plantation at homes, educational institutions, residential colonies, and other suitable locations by providing free saplings, equipment, and technical assistance.

The plantation drive will focus on native and long-living tree species, including Peepal, Banyan, Gular, Neem, Arjun, and Jamun. The Delhi government also plans to develop 100 Oxygen Parks across the city as part of its green initiative.

Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa said the Green Drive Portal has categorised plantation sites across all 70 Assembly constituencies, allowing citizens to book slots by constituency or location at their convenience.

He added that the campaign extends beyond designated plantation sites to encourage greening of homes, educational institutions, and rooftop gardens wherever space allows.

–IANS

rch/dpb