Call to stop extraction of forests in Hazara

ABBOTTABAD: A civil society organization working for the preservation of the natural habitats and biodiversity in the Galiyat region called the government to stop the forest extraction campaign in the Hazara division for its severe ecological repercussions.

Talking to newsmen, Galiyat Tahafuz Movement Chairman Sardar Muhammad Sabir sounded alarm over the campaign in Hazara and especially in Galiyat.He emphasized the critical importance of forests in maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems, providing essential services such as carbon sequestration, water regulation, and habitat preservation.

The CSO head said indiscriminate extraction of forests not only posed a grave threat to biodiversity but also exacerbated environmental degradation, leading to irreversible consequences for future generations.

He expressed grave concern over the approach of prioritizing economic gains over environmental sustainability and said it was short-sighted.Sardar Sabir vowed to mobilize efforts to raise awareness about the devastating impact of forest extraction.

He said his organization would engage in advocacy efforts to urge authorities to halt the extraction campaign and instead promote sustainable forest management practices.Sardar Sabir emphasized that if the extraction campaign was not halted promptly, the Galiyat Tahafuz Movement would take legal remedies besides staging protests and demonstrations to draw attention to the urgent need for conservation action.He called upon all stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and local communities, to unite to safeguard the precious natural heritage of Hazara and ensure the protection of forests for future generations.