Protect forests, reject deforestation

2026-02-07 - 23:46

PUNJAB Government has made notable strides in advancing eco-friendly initiatives which are also yielding results. The province’s leadership has increasingly understood that environmental sustainability is not just a necessity but a cornerstone for long-term development. However, the introduction of The Forest (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which seeks to amend the Forest Act of 1927, presents a disturbing shift in this trajectory. The proposed amendments would grant the provincial government sweeping powers to de-reserve protected forest land for projects deemed of national importance, paving the way for increased construction, mining and other industrial projects in some of Punjab’s most vital ecological zones. This development is, at its core, a serious concern. With Pakistan already grappling with the dire effects of climate change, including erratic weather patterns, increasing temperatures and devastating floods, the last thing we need is to weaken protections for the very ecosystems that provide critical services to our environment. Forests, particularly those in protected areas are more than just scenic landscapes, they are vital carbon sinks that help regulate the climate and preserve biodiversity. Our forests are already under stress, with Punjab’s forest cover standing at just 3.2%. Any further reduction in this cover will only worsen the situation. WWF-Pakistan’s statement on the proposed amendments highlights the gravity of this issue, noting that the bill represents a “dangerous precedent.”Instead of opening up protected areas for development, Punjab should be focusing on strategies to expand its forest cover. Increasing afforestation efforts and supporting sustainable forest management practices should be the top priority. By doing so, Punjab cannot only mitigate the effects of climate change but also secure a greener, more prosperous future for its people. We are confident that Punjab’s Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, who has been a strong advocate for social and economic progress, will make the right decision in this matter. She has consistently shown her commitment to the welfare of the people of Punjab and we trust she will recognize the far-reaching implications of such a policy. The focus should not be on cutting down our already limited forests but on increasing their number, improving their health and ensuring that they continue to play a critical role in the province’s ecological and economic well-being.