A staggering 1.1 million cubic feet of illegally harvested timber has been impounded by authorities under the Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) Forest Act, 2019, it was revealed during a high-level Senate committee meeting on Tuesday focused on the region’s environmental preservation efforts.
The disclosure was made to the Senate Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan, and SAFRON, which conducted an on-site review of conservation initiatives in the Baltistan Division. During the briefing at the Commissioner’s Conference Hall, the Secretary Forests informed the panel that a comprehensive plan is being formulated for the sustainable utilization of the confiscated wood.
In an effort to curb rampant deforestation, the Commissioner of Baltistan Division outlined significant renewable energy projects currently underway. These initiatives include a 100 MW solar and a 60 MW hydropower facility aimed at providing alternative energy sources to local populations and lessening their dependence on forests for fuel.
The committee, presided over by Senator Asad Qasim, directed the GB administration to expedite the finalization of its forest working plan. The legislative body also requested to be kept updated on any new policies or legal measures pertaining to environmental safeguarding in the area.
Later, the senatorial group assessed the progress of the GLOF-II Project and the Early Warning System (EWS). The members emphasized the necessity for enhanced coordination between departments to strengthen the region’s disaster preparedness and response capabilities.
The review was attended by Senators Nadeem Ahmed Bhutto, Nasir Mahmood, and Ata-ul-Haq, as well as Additional Chief Secretary (Development) Syed Waheed Shah, Joint Secretary Kashmir Affairs, DG Disaster Management Zakir Hussain, Commissioner Baltistan Division Kamal Khan, DC Skardu Hamza Murad, and other senior officials. As part of their visit, committee members also participated in a tree plantation activity at the Administration Complex.