Islamabad: The Senate Sub-Committee on Kashmir Affairs, led by Senator Faisal Saleem Rehman, held a crucial review session addressing forest management and illegal logging in Gilgit-Baltistan. The committee examined the regulatory framework governing forest contractors and emphasized sustainable forest management practices.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the committee was informed that local communities privately own the forests, while forestry operations are directed by scientific working plans. During the session, contractors expressed concerns over regulatory issues, including heavy penalties, security deposits, and delays in felling operations. They also highlighted a lack of consultation in drafting agreements.

The committee instructed the Forest Department to reassess contractor cases pending since 1992, submit the 2002 Working Plan, and provide a comparative analysis of the current felling sequence. It was noted that offenders involved in illegal logging face steep fines, and 57 seized vehicles are currently held in departmental custody. An on-site inspection of confiscated timber and vehicles was planned, and the committee was informed that 86 CCTV cameras monitor forest check posts.

Contractors further raised issues related to security challenges, transportation delays, rising costs, and attacks on workers in remote areas. The committee urged the Forest Department to tackle these operational difficulties, discourage frivolous complaints, and ensure that lawful forestry activities proceed without compromising security or sustainable practices.

The committee reaffirmed its dedication to curbing illegal logging, ensuring transparency, safeguarding private investments, and promoting sustainable forest management in Gilgit-Baltistan.