Balochistan moves to save forest resources

Tree felling barred for a year as authorities halt timber movement

QUETTA:

The Balochistan government has announced a comprehensive crackdown on illegal deforestation, imposing a one-year ban on tree cutting across the province and a 90-day prohibition on the transportation, movement, and transfer of all kinds of wood, timber, logs, and other forest products.

The decision was taken to protect the province's dwindling forest resources, curb smuggling, and restore environmental balance. The ban has come into immediate effect and will apply to all districts of Balochistan.

Secretary Forests Imran Gachki confirmed that the tree-felling ban will be strictly enforced, with severe legal action against violators.

The move follows a report submitted by the Commissioner Qalat regarding large-scale illegal tree cutting in Lasbela. Taking swift action on the report, the Forest Department suspended five officers for 90 days on charges of negligence in duty, corruption, and involvement in illegal logging activities.

Additional Chief Secretary (Interior) Muhammad Hamza Shafqat said the provincial government has invoked Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to enforce the 90-day ban on wood and forest product transportation in the larger public interest and for the protection of natural resources.

"All Deputy Commissioners, Assistant Commissioners, Police, Frontier Corps, and other law enforcement agencies have been empowered to stop, seize, and take into custody any vehicle, truck, or trailer carrying wood or forest products in violation of this order," Shafqat said.

He warned that violators will face legal proceedings under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code and other relevant laws. No vehicle loaded with wood or forest products will be released during the ban period even if it carries a permit or authorization.

The Additional Chief Secretary clarified that exceptions would only be granted in extraordinary cases involving public interest or government necessities, and that too after written approval from the Secretary Interior. Until such formal approval is received, the ban will remain fully enforced.

The Home Department has directed all concerned authorities to ensure strict implementation of the order to effectively check illegal movement of forest resources and safeguard the environment.