Action against the timber mafia launched: Marriyum

LAHORE, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 28th Sep, 2024) Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb on Saturday said a comprehensive crackdown had been launched against the timber mafia.

In line with Prime Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision for a greener Punjab, strict measures were taken to combat unauthorized tree felling and illegal timber trade. Recent amendments to the Forest Act had strengthened the legal framework, ensuring harsher penalties for both individuals and officials involved.

The senior minister stressed that the Ministry of Forests has intensified activities against timber smuggling and theft to reduce smog and preserve forest resources. Several timber mafia figures were arrested during a month-long operation in Rawalpindi North Forest Division. Authorities have successfully seized ten vehicles, including trucks, jeeps and land rovers, used in smuggling Balan and Pine timber. Another seven trucks, loaded with illegal timber, were seized, leading to the arrest of twenty persons and the imposition of Rs.

850,000 fine.

Marriyum said the Punjab Chief Minister had given clear instructions for strict punitive action against officers or officials who helped illegal loggers. She also called for the use of advanced monitoring technologies, including GIS systems, drones and thermal cameras, to improve forest monitoring and prevent future violations.

Marriyum Aurangzeb reiterated that trees must be protected. Those involved in illegal logging or timber theft would face immediate arrest and legal action as the Prime Minister would adopt a zero-tolerance policy in the matter. The senior provincial minister assured that the ongoing operations will continue to dismantle the activities of the timber mafia, leaving no room for impunity.

She concluded by emphasizing the importance of forests as essential to the ecosystem, playing a key role in reducing smog and improving air quality, and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to protecting this natural heritage.