Dedicated force to check deforestation

In a bid to combat the growing menace of timber theft, the Punjab government has begun formulating a plan to establish a dedicated Forest Force in collaboration with the police and revenue department.

The initiative is being taken to ensure timely punishment for timber thieves while protecting the province's depleting forest resources.

According to official sources, divisional forest officers (DFOs) will be empowered with magisterial powers to punish offenders promptly.

The measure was expected to address the persistent delays in the judicial process and reduce reliance on an overburdened court system.

Official sources revealed that cases of timber theft often take too long to resolve in courts, and even when verdicts were issued, police were slow to apprehend proclaimed offenders. Additionally, the current low fines fail to act as a strong deterrent, further complicating efforts to stop illegal practice.

The proposed Forest Force will work along with the police to ensure timely action against offenders. It is also expected to introduce a stricter penalty system, making timber theft a high-risk activity.

"Timely punishment is crucial to deterring such crimes," said a senior official. Divisional Forest Officer Irum Munir highlighted the various challenges faced by the forest department, especially in the Multan region.