Crackdown launched against timber mafia

Senior minister says action aimed at mitigating smog, conserving forests

LAHORE:

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said on Saturday that a comprehensive crackdown on the timber mafia had been launched in the province.

In line with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz's vision for a greener Punjab, strict action was being taken to combat unauthorised tree cutting and illicit trade of timber, she said.

The senior minister said recent amendments to the Forest Act had strengthened the legal framework, ensuring harsher penalties for both citizens and officials found involved in the violations.

She stressed that in order to mitigate smog and preserve forest resources, the department of forestry had intensified operations against timber smuggling and theft.

During a month-long operation in the Rawalpindi North Forest Division, several members of the timber mafia have been arrested.

The authorities seized 10 vehicles, including trucks and jeeps, used in smuggling Balan and pine timber.

An additional seven trucks loaded with illegal timber were confiscated, leading to the arrest of 20 people and imposition of Rs850,000 worth of fine.

Marriyum Aurangzeb said the Punjab chief minister had issued clear instructions for strict punitive measures against any officials found aiding illegal loggers.

She also called for the use of advanced monitoring technologies, including the geographical information systems, drones and thermal cameras, to enhance forest surveillance and prevent future violations.

The senior minister reiterated that trees must be protected. Those involved in illegal logging or timber theft would face immediate arrest and legal action, as the chief minister had adopted a zero-tolerance policy on the issue.

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb asserted that the ongoing operations would be carried on to curb the timber mafia's activities, leaving no room for impunity.