Action against timber mafia launched

LAHORE:

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said on Saturday that a comprehensive crackdown against the timber mafia has been launched in the province.

In line with Prime Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision for a greener Punjab, strict measures are being taken to curb unauthorized felling of trees and illegal timber trade, she said.

The senior minister said recent amendments to the Forest Act have strengthened the legal framework, ensuring stricter penalties for both citizens and officials involved in the violations.

She stressed that the Ministry of Forests has intensified activities against timber smuggling and theft to reduce smog and preserve forest resources.

Several members of the timber mafia were arrested in a month-long operation in Rawalpindi North Forest Division.

Authorities have seized ten vehicles, including trucks and jeeps, used in smuggling Balan and pine wood.

Another seven trucks loaded with illegal timber were seized, leading to the arrest of 20 people and the imposition of a fine worth Rs850,000.

Marriyum Aurangzeb said the Punjab Chief Minister had given clear instructions for strict punitive action against officials found aiding illegal loggers.

She also called for the use of advanced monitoring technologies, including the Geographic Information Systems, drones and thermal cameras, to improve forest surveillance and prevent future violations.

The senior minister 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 had adopted a zero-tolerance policy in the matter.

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb asserted that ongoing operations would continue to curb the activities of the timber mafia, leaving no room for impunity.