Government of Punjab has taken a bold step to confront the growing threat of climate change. The provincial administration has officially banned the traditional auction of forest timber, a practice that has long fueled deforestation across Pakistan.
Speaking in program Pakistan Today at K21 news Director General of Forests Azfer Zia confirmed the decision stressing that unchecked tree cutting is no longer acceptable in an era when climate change is intensifying floods, heatwaves, and environmental degradation.
For decades, Pakistan’s forests have been under relentless pressure logged for fuel, furniture, and profit leaving the country with one of the lowest forest cover rates in the region By halting timber auctions, Punjab is signaling a major policy shift forests are no longer just a resource to be sold but a lifeline for climate resilience.
Environmental experts argue that this step could pave the way for a new conservation strategy where forests are protected as natural infrastructure against floods, droughts and rising temperatures. While challenges remain from illegal logging to enforcement gaps the ban sends a clear messagePakistan can no longer afford to trade away its trees.
For communities, policymakers, and future generations this decision might just be the beginning of a greener more sustainable Pakistan.
