Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa's far flung mountainous district of Shangla has been in the grip of severe cold, and the incomplete working plan for tree chopping by the Forest Department has left residents facing immense difficulties.
The lack of access to gas and subsidized electricity in the cold hill stations like Shangla, force people to rely on fire wood from local forests.
However, the Forest Department does not have any clear policy regarding firewood acquisition, which is no less than a big torment for the people in the harsh winter.
Severe cold has set in across upper areas like Shangla, with snowfall expected in residential areas following the recent rain. However, the Forest Department officials have made it clear that they have not yet completed the working plan for the district, and there is currently no law governing the collection of firewood from local forests for heating houses.
Locals are legally permitted to collect firewood from the forests, but the lack of a working plan and clear regulations has created difficulties for residents. In response, people are urging the government to establish free gardens in forest areas, along field edges, and in barren lands so that they can use this firewood in the winter.
The situation is particularly distressing for the local residents who are highly dependent on the local forest.
Despite being surrounded by mountain streams and water falls, they have no access to affordable electricity generated locally like some other districts.
Electricity from Pesco is not cheap and affordable.
Furthermore, the area lacks a gas supply, making lives really difficult for the general public.
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