Officials from Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) admitted before the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Climate Change that unchecked deforestation continues in the region, though they maintained that strict measures are in place to curb timber smuggling.
The committee meeting, chaired by Munaza Hassan at Parliament House, was briefed by the GB Forest Department. Officials acknowledged that despite widespread tree cutting, an enforcement mechanism ensures all vehicles, including government-owned ones, are subject to rigorous checking.
Secretary Forests revealed that, for the first time, timber is being transported into Gilgit-Baltistan from other provinces. He further disclosed that even the official vehicle of the incumbent GB minister was found carrying smuggled timber. When locals caught for illegal logging sought political cover, the minister allegedly told them he was already facing similar cases himself and could not offer support.
The committee was informed that forests cover only 3.58 percent of GB’s total area, with Diamer’s forests entirely in private hands. Authorities admitted that the overall forest condition was poor and confirmed the dismissal of 59 Forest Department employees over involvement in illegal logging.
Officials from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) also briefed the committee, stating that a 20-year study is underway to assess the impact of floods and monsoon rains on forests. They added that all equipment used in timber smuggling is being seized.
Committee member Shaista Khan criticized the absence of a forest fire control system in KP and warned that the timber mafia remains active across the province.
Chairperson Hassan expressed concern over the alarming statistics presented, questioning how authorities intended to curb deforestation and illegal logging. She also noted that PTI had barred KP MNAs from attending the meeting.
The chairperson directed the Punjab government to coordinate with Committee member Owais Haider Jhakhar from Layyah, ensuring immediate relief for flood-affected residents in his constituency and addressing his concerns without delay.
