CHAKWAL: Widespread and allegedly illegal cutting of trees in Kallar Kahar Tehsil of Chakwal District has raised serious concerns among residents and environmental circles, with calls for immediate action to protect the area’s remaining green cover.
Residents have expressed alarm over what they describe as the indiscriminate cutting of mature trees that have taken years to grow. They said trees that require decades of natural growth and sustained care are being felled within minutes, causing long-term damage to the local environment.
According to local concerns, tractor-trolleys allegedly operating without proper registration or permits are being used to transport cut timber. Residents have called for stricter monitoring of vehicles involved in the transportation of timber and immediate action against anyone found violating forest and environmental regulations.
Environmental experts and members of the local community have expressed concern over the deterioration of the area’s natural environment and the continued loss of trees.
They stressed that the removal of mature trees not only reduces green cover but can also contribute to soil degradation, biodiversity loss, rising local temperatures and reduced environmental resilience.
Residents have appealed to the district administration and relevant forest and environmental authorities to take immediate notice of the situation and conduct inspections of vulnerable areas.
They have also demanded strict enforcement of existing regulations governing tree cutting and timber transportation, along with effective monitoring of both public and privately owned land.
Some residents have called for a temporary ban on tree cutting on government and private land until the status of existing trees is assessed and an effective monitoring mechanism is established.
They further demanded action against illegal timber operations and greater transparency in the issuance of any permits related to tree cutting.
The concerns come amid growing calls for stronger protection of Pakistan’s tree cover as the country faces increasing pressures from climate change, extreme weather, water stress and environmental degradation.
Residents said protecting mature trees should be treated as a priority rather than allowing years of natural growth to be lost in a matter of minutes.
They urged the authorities to move beyond statements and ensure effective enforcement, regular field inspections and accountability to prevent further loss of trees in Kallar Kahar.
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