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ZAYN MALIK A Senate sub-committee on Wednesday reviewed forest management, illegal logging, and security challenges affecting forestry operations in Gilgit-Baltistan, directing authorities to strengthen oversight while supporting sustainable forestry practices.
The meeting, chaired by Senator Faisal Saleem Rehman, examined the regulatory framework governing forest contractors. Officials informed the committee that forests are privately owned by local communities, while forestry activities are carried out under scientific working plans.
Forest contractors raised concerns over heavy penalties, security deposits, delays in tree-felling approvals, and limited consultation during the drafting of agreements. In response, the committee directed the Forest Department to review pending contractor cases dating back to 1992, submit the 2002 Working Plan, and provide a comparative analysis of the current felling sequence.
Members were also briefed that individuals involved in illegal logging face fines equal to three times the market value of the timber, while 57 confiscated vehicles remain in departmental custody. The committee decided to conduct an on-site inspection of the seized timber and vehicles and was informed that 86 CCTV cameras are monitoring forest check posts.
The committee also discussed security concerns, transportation delays, rising operational costs, and attacks on forestry workers in remote areas. It directed the Forest Department to address these challenges while ensuring legal forestry activities continue without compromising environmental protection.
