New Delhi, June 5 (IANS): The Delhi government would plant 10 lakh trees and five lakh saplings of medicinal and herbal plants this year in the national capital, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday.

"Our government will promote effective plantation and steps will be taken to ensure that such plantations survive. Third-party audit of the plantation drive will be conducted to ensure accountability," said Kejriwal.

"The landowning greening agencies have also been asked to conduct a tree census," he added while planting trees at Garhi Mandu city forest to celebrate the World Environment Day.

Kejriwal said the government would launch a campaign to urge people to plant more and more trees to make Delhi a clean and green city.

He also said the government was "sensitive" towards enriching biodiversity.

"Delhi government is sensitive towards enriching biodiversity of the city and lays special emphasis on conservation and survival of endangered species of plants and animals," the chief minister said.

"City forests serve as the lungs for the densely populated areas by providing fresh air, and natural environment is essential for healthy living. Development of city forests also helps in checking soil erosion," he added.

Delhi has around 42 city forests. The Delhi government proposes to develop them for protecting natural flora and fauna besides providing people a place for walking/jogging.