Forests play a vital role in the development of a country. They are among the most valuable natural resources and are essential for maintaining environmental balance. According to experts, forests should cover at least 25 percent of a country’s total land area. Unfortunately, in Pakistan, forest cover is only about 4.5 percent, which is dangerously low.
Deforestation is one of the major environmental problems faced by the world today. It refers to the cutting, burning and destruction of forests. It is the first link in a chain of environmental damage that leads to soil erosion, climate change, air pollution and the loss of hardwood and fuel.
Forests are being cut down at an alarming rate to provide timber, grazing land and farmland. As a result, one of the world’s most valuable natural systems is being destroyed. Wildlife and plant life are also disappearing because their natural habitats are being damaged.
Pakistan is not self-sufficient in wood-based products and spends billions of rupees each year importing timber and related materials. At the same time, the country’s forests are shrinking by nearly one percent annually. If this continues, it will have serious and long-lasting effects on the people and environment of Pakistan.
Protecting forests is not only an environmental need but also a national responsibility.
Shaika Iqbal
Gidroshi, Balochistan
