Eco Task Force plants 6.5 million saplings in Himachal Pradesh

SHIMLA 10th August, 2025

· Playing a key role in Disaster Management

The Eco Task Force, constituted by the StateGovernment for environmental conservation, is not only contributing significantly in the field of ecology but is also playing an important role in relief and rehabilitation during disaster management in the State.

Commanding Officer, 133 Eco Task Force, Colonel Deepak Kumar, informed here today that due to heavy rains since around 4 PM on 8th August 2025, a massive landslide blocked the Manali-Pandoh National Highway on both sides, stranding a large number of travelers. The Bravo Company of the 133 Ecological Task Force, stationed at Jalogi, accommodated the stranded passengers – including women and children -at the Army camp between Hanogi and Thalot, providing them with food and shelter for the night. The passengers were sent to their destinations once the road was cleared.

He said that the Ecological Task Force has planted over 6.5 million saplings across 6,000 hectares in the State. The Task Force carries out plantation drives in areas such as Shimla, Mandi, Karsog, Nachan, Kullu, and Sainj, selecting species suitable for the local environment. It is also contributing significantly towards providing employment to ex-servicemen in Himachal Pradesh.