Chitral Forest Division, under the FAO Chilghoza Project, distributed 26,000 fruit plants among
communities residing in various valleys of Chitral, said a press release. The distribution events took place in Kalash Valley (including Birir, Bumburate), as well as in Shishikoh and Madaklasht Valley.
“The fruit plants, carefully selected to thrive in the region’s climate and environment, encompassed
grafted varieties of walnut, apricots, and apples.”
Abdul Majeed, Divisional Forest Officer, Chitral Forest Division, attended the and oversaw the distribution process. Emphasizing the significance of fruit plant plantation, Mr. Majeed highlighted its pivotal role in
supporting local livelihoods and contributing to forest conservation efforts in the area.
Under the free distribution program, 2600 local community members and over 400 households
benefited from the initiative this year alone. Mr. Ajaz Ahmad, Provincial Coordinator of the Chilghoza
Project, highlighted the project’s broader objectives of conserving the Chilghoza forest landscape and
enhancing forest value chain development to improve livelihoods.
Expressing gratitude for the efforts of the Forest Department and FAO, Mr. Unat Baig Kalash, a Kalash
elder and Member of the District Council Chitral, lauded their commitment to the area’s development.
He emphasized the local community’s interest for fruit plant plantation, recognizing its integral role in
sustaining their livelihoods. The distribution of fruit plants not only signifies a step towards economic
empowerment but also reflects a collaborative endeavor towards environmental stewardship and
community well-being in Chitral – PR
