SWAT: The district administration has intensified action against illegal tree cutting in Swat to protect forests and prevent the loss of valuable natural resources.
Acting on information about illegal logging, Additional Assistant Commissioner Khwazakhela, accompanied by Levies personnel, inspected a forest area in Baram Pattai, Khwazakhela, where unauthorised tree cutting was detected.
During the inspection, officials found that around 30 pine trees had been cut, producing approximately 122 logs. According to the Forest Department, permission had been granted for the cutting of only six trees in the area.
A loaded vehicle carrying timber, along with 11 logs and the individuals concerned, was handed over to the Forest Department for further legal action and registration of a case. The remaining 122 logs found at the site were also placed in the custody of the Range Officer.
Illegal logging poses a serious threat to forests, biodiversity, soil stability and the natural water cycle. Protecting forest cover is particularly important in mountainous areas such as Swat, where forests also help reduce soil erosion and strengthen resilience against environmental and climate-related risks.
The district administration said, on the directions of the Deputy Commissioner Bar Swat, action to protect forests, safeguard natural resources and prevent illegal tree cutting would continue with greater effectiveness.
The authorities also urged continued cooperation among enforcement agencies, forest officials and local communities to protect Swat’s valuable forest resources.
