Dhaka University Vice Chancellor Prof AAMS Arefin Siddique yesterday stressed the need for planting more trees to maintain ecological balance and prevent environmental degradation.

Prof Arefin made the call while inaugurating a tree plantation programme organised by the Arboriculture Office and Tree Plantation and Beautification Committee of Dhaka University (DU) in front of Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban on the campus, says a press release.

He also called upon all to transform the tree plantation programme into a social movement through creating mass awareness across the country.

Speaking as the chief guest he said people should also take care of trees after planting so the trees could survive and grow.

Presided over by curator of Arboriculture Office Prof Dr Syed Hadiuzzaman, the inaugural session was also addressed by Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Harun-or-Rashid and Treasurer Prof Dr Mizanur Rahman.

A total of 1,000 saplings of wood, fruit and medicinal trees will be planted under the programme.