Punjab intensifies crackdown on timber mafia to curb smog, protect forests

Illegal deforestation identified as major cause of smog, air pollution

At the direction of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Punjab Forest Department has intensified its crackdown on the timber mafia as part of efforts to curb smog and protect the environment across the province.

In an action, the Murree Forest Division foiled an attempt to smuggle valuable timber. The operation was carried out during the night between October 23 and 24 in the Halwar area.

During the check, the forest department team stopped a suspicious vehicle and recovered a large quantity of precious timber. The vehicle was seized, while the suspects managed to escape. The vehicle has been moved to the Forest Range Office for legal proceedings.

Read: Crackdown launched against timber mafia

Illegal deforestation has been identified as a major contributor to smog and air pollution, prompting the Government of Punjab to take strict action.

The forest department’s operations are being carried out as a key component of the Smog Control Program, with a zero-tolerance policy in place against the timber mafia.

Following the vision of Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Green Punjab Mission has accelerated efforts to protect forests and expand tree plantation drives.

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that a coordinated strategy is being implemented to safeguard natural resources and eliminate smog.