DLP Report
PESHAWAR
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Department of Climate Change, Forestry, Environment and Wildlife has categorically rejected the circulating reports alleging forest cutting and timber smuggling in Arandu Gol, District Chitral, terming them contrary to facts and entirely unfounded.
The Department reiterated that a complete, indiscriminate ban on illegal tree felling is firmly enforced across the province, with strict compliance ensured through robust monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.
Secretary Forests Junaid Khan, stated that the provincial government maintains a zero-tolerance policy against timber smuggling, and no leniency or negligence will be tolerated in this regard. He emphasized that forests are a national asset, and their protection remains a top priority of the government.
According to the Secretary Forests, the Arandu issue has remained under consideration for the past two decades. Taking into account its historical, geographical, and socio-economic dimensions, a comprehensive, sustainable, and consultative policy is being formulated to ensure a lawful and lasting resolution. The Forest Department further informed that multiple check posts are operational in and around Arandu to curb the illegal transportation of timber, while continuous surveillance through modern monitoring systems is underway to promptly deter any unlawful activity.
It was also stated that the process of formulating the Arandu policy will be inclusive and participatory, with all relevant stakeholders— including local communities, elected representatives, and concerned institutions—taken on board to ensure that decisions are transparent, balanced, and aligned with the public interest.
On this occasion, Secretary Forests Junaid Khan also clarified that the Up-Scaling Green Pakistan Project (UGPP) has been directed to prepare an independent assessment report regarding Arandu Gol. The designated team will conduct a detailed field inspection and submit its findings to the Department of Climate Change, enabling future actions to be guided by verified facts and ground realities.
Reaffirming its commitment, the Forest Department stated that transparency, accountability, rule of law, and environmental protection form the cornerstone of the provincial government’s overall strategy. All legal instruments will be employed to safeguard forest resources, and no individual or group will be considered above the law.
In conclusion, the Department of Climate Change, Forestry, Environment and Wildlife, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, conveyed a clear and resolute message i.e. “Green Khyber Pakhtunkhwa — a Secure Future” is the unwavering commitment of the provincial government, for which every possible measure will continue to be undertaken.
