A Senate subcommittee has ordered the immediate suspension of timber transit licenses in Gilgit-Baltistan until authorities complete a comprehensive physical verification of forest lessees and logging activities. The move is aimed at strengthening oversight, improving transparency, and ensuring sustainable forest management across the region.
The directive was issued during a meeting of the Senate Sub-Committee on Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and States and Frontier Regions, chaired by Senator Faisal Saleem Rehman at Parliament House. Lawmakers reviewed the implementation of the Diamer Forest Working Plan 2021-2050 and assessed the current state of forest governance in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Committee members emphasized the need for stricter monitoring of timber extraction and transportation to prevent illegal logging and protect the region’s valuable forest resources. Officials were instructed to halt the issuance of new timber transit permits until every lessee and ongoing logging operation undergoes physical verification.
The panel highlighted that effective implementation of the Diamer Forest Working Plan requires accurate field inspections and proper documentation. Members stressed that transparent verification procedures would help ensure that timber harvesting is carried out in accordance with approved regulations and environmental standards.
Gilgit-Baltistan is home to some of Pakistan’s most important forest ecosystems, which play a vital role in biodiversity conservation, watershed protection, and climate resilience. Experts have long warned that unchecked logging can contribute to deforestation, soil erosion, habitat loss, and increased environmental risks.
By suspending timber transport licenses, the committee aims to strengthen accountability within the forestry sector while discouraging unauthorized timber movement. The decision is expected to help authorities identify irregularities, verify lease agreements, and ensure that only legally harvested timber enters the supply chain.
Officials attending the meeting were also asked to provide updates on the implementation of the long-term forest management strategy and explain the measures being taken to safeguard natural resources. The committee reaffirmed its commitment to promoting sustainable forestry practices that balance economic activity with environmental protection.
The Diamer Forest Working Plan 2021-2050 serves as a long-term roadmap for conserving forest resources while supporting responsible timber production. Lawmakers noted that consistent monitoring and enforcement are essential to achieving the plan’s objectives and preserving forests for future generations.
The Senate panel’s latest directive reflects growing efforts to improve governance in Pakistan’s forestry sector. The suspension of timber transit licenses will remain in effect until the verification process is completed and authorities are satisfied that logging operations comply with all legal and environmental requirements.