Plantation, awareness drives by NER ahead of Environment Day

Varanasi: On the eve of World Environment Day, divisional railway manager of North Eastern Railway, Ashish Jain, along with divisional officers, conducted a plantation drive on Thursday in the circulating area of Banaras Railway Station under the Mission LiFE campaign.Besides, eco-friendly exhibitions, drawing competitions and several other programmes were organised at stations of the Varanasi Division under the Environment Conservation Campaign being observed from May 15 to June 5.After the plantation drive, the DRM also inspected the eco-friendly exhibition held in the general waiting hall of Banaras Station. An awareness programme was organised on the occasion. Addressing participants, the DRM said that the United Nations General Assembly designated June 5 as World Environment Day in 1972 to raise awareness about environmental conservation and that it was first celebrated in 1974. He said the theme of World Environment Day 2026 focuses on climate change, highlighting the need for collective efforts to address environmental challenges.Under the campaign, the goal of promoting a plastic-free environment is to reduce the use of single-use plastics and encourage reusable and sustainable alternatives, thereby contributing to a cleaner planet and healthier ecosystem. He said reducing the use of plastic bags, straws, cutlery and disposable containers is essential for protecting nature from plastic waste.He further stressed the importance of minimising plastic waste generation through recycling and composting, supporting eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging alternatives, and educating people about the environmental impact of plastic pollution.The DRM also felicitated employees and presented certificates of appreciation to winners of essay and drawing competitions organised on the theme of climate change and environmental improvement. During the programme, members of the Bharat Scouts and Guides staged a street play on the themes of “Water and Energy Conservation” and “Beat Plastic Pollution” to create awareness among passengers.Additionally, under the World Environment and Energy Conservation Month campaign, an awareness programme was organised for vehicle drivers at Level Crossing No. 25 Special near Varanasi City Station. Drivers and vehicle owners were advised to switch off vehicle engines while waiting at closed level crossings or traffic signals to conserve diesel and petrol and reduce emissions.