In Chandigarh, there is an incremental growth not only in the area under forests but also in their quality which is measured by density,' he added.

According to the State Forest Report 2007, the forest cover in Chandigarh has increased to 35.7 percent of its total geographical area as compared to 29.3 percent in 2003 and only 21 percent in 1991.

This green cover has exceeded the 33 percent target set by the National forest policy of India that is required to maintain ecological balance and environmental cleanliness.

The total green cover area in India is 23.5 percent.

'Chandigarh has exceeded the target of 33 percent despite the fact that it is mainly an urban area where construction activity is in abundance,' pointed out Singh.