Punjab: Man working on green mission planted 1.6 lakh trees

Punjab: Gurpreet Singh Bedi of Samrala leads a single purpose in life – to plant as many trees as possible in every corner of the city. From roadsides to vacant spaces and cremation grounds, Bedi has left his ‘green’ mark everywhere. Since 2007, Bedi has planted 1.60 lakh trees in and around Samrala. However, the most commendable thing is that he never leaves the saplings to fend for themselves, but constantly monitors and protects them until they grow big enough to survive on their own. “As a child, sitting in my school ground in Samrala, I felt indebted to my ancestors who planted and nurtured trees for the future generations. When I grew up, I too planned to follow in their footsteps so that future generations can enjoy the greenery,” the tree lover said. Bedi said, “In 2007 I started Samrala Hockey Club, as the national sport is my first love. I planted 100 saplings on the road divider in Samrala.

My visit to Australia in 2008 fuelled my passion for planting trees. I wanted to inculcate in my people the same love and respect that the Australian government and people have for trees. Encouraged and refreshed, I resumed my campaign. I chose the vacant land around Samrala railway station and planted 3,000 saplings and shrubs. I nurtured them like my children and in the entire process of nurturing, not a single sapling died. This place has now become a centre of attraction for all.” He added, “Now I am getting help from many clubs and associations, who donate generously for this noble cause. In my 18-year greenery journey, I have planted 1.60 lakh trees in 30 to 35 villages, out of which I can proudly say that about one lakh are alive.” “I firmly believe that the drive to plant trees in every village, town or city should not be limited to a mere formality. This is a move in which we want the support of every individual, including children, youth and adults,” Bedi said. “We have planted 15 mini forests in agricultural fields with the consent of farmers. Now these areas are home to a variety of plant and animal species. Not only this, we have tried to restore the natural habitat of animals who were feeling deprived of their places.” Bedi has covered 2,300 households, where she, along with her team, has planted fruit trees, which are now being looked after by the owners. Principal Kamaljit Kaur, who has grown 25 varieties of fruits in her garden at Bedi’s behest, says, “Planting a fruit tree and having it bear fruit one day brings immense joy to the owner of the tree, who nurtures it with a sense of both pride and satisfaction. When I sit with my trees and enjoy the fruits, the beauty and feeling of home-grown fresh fruits is beyond description in every way.” Kamaljit Singh Malhi, another resident who has planted a fruit garden in his house, says, “Bedi is truly a man of nature. Apart from planting trees, he has built nests all around, which have now become the permanent abode of thousands of birds. He organises lectures and seminars on the issue in educational institutions.” Bedi, along with his team, also provides financial assistance to thousands of needy girls whose parents are not able to provide them education and have to stay behind due to lack of financial resources.