SWAT: District Magistrate Swat, Shahzad Mohib, has imposed a complete ban on the illegal cutting of trees and the use of ‘chainsaws’ and other machinery in private and protected areas across the district. The ban, which will remain in effect for 60 days, has been imposed under Section 144 of the Pakistan Penal Code. According to the notification, illegal deforestation has been observed in various areas of Swat, leading to an increase in natural disasters and climate change. The use of destructive machinery, such as chainsaws, has been identified as a major contributor to this issue. The notification emphasizes the need to protect forests on public and private lands to mitigate the effects of climate change and to discourage the timber mafia. Any violations of the ban will be punishable under Section 188 of the PPC. This move is a significant step towards protecting Swat’s natural resources and promoting sustainable development in the region. DLP Report
