Lahore, In a decisive move to protect the ecological integrity of Lal Sahanra National Park in Bahawalpur, Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has overseen the transfer of 11 officers, including a Chief Conservator of Grade 20, following reports of illegal tree cutting within the park. This action underscores the government’s commitment to preserving natural resources and wildlife in one of the province’s most valuable conservation areas.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, the transfers were part of a broader response to allegations of unauthorized logging activities in the park, prompting an immediate investigation by a team from the Secretary Forest and Anti-Corruption Department. The inquiry aims to meticulously assess the extent of the damage, including the variety and number of trees affected, and identify those responsible for this environmental violation. Senior Minister Aurangzeb has assured that any officers and officials found complicit in these activities will face strict legal repercussions.

Among those transferred back to their respective departments were Conservator Khalid Mehmood, Conservators of Grade 19 Manzoor Ahmed, Divisional Forest Officer of Grade 18 Nadeem Ashraf, and several other personnel from different grades, indicating the government’s no-tolerance policy towards environmental degradation.

Lal Sahanra National Park, situated approximately 35 km east of Bahawalpur and sprawling over 127,480 acres, is a designated UNESCO forest and wildlife conservation park. Its unique geographical and structural features, including deserts, forests, ponds, streams, and wetlands, contribute significantly to the ecosystem’s balance. The park is not only a reserve for environmental protection at a global level but also home to the remnants of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization and a sanctuary for rare wildlife, making the illegal felling of trees a matter of grave concern for both local and international conservation efforts.