Call to take action against timber mafia

LAHORE: Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) Chief Executive Officer Mian Kashif Ashfaq on Sunday demanded the government take decisive action against the timber mafia to protect the wealth of country’s forests.

According to a statement issued here, he pointed out that rampant illegal logging threatens Pakistan’s ecological balance and emphasised the urgent need for strict enforcement of forestry laws.

He demanded the government strengthen the legal framework governing forestry and enhance the capacity of enforcement agencies to effectively combat illegal logging. This includes deploying more forest rangers, using modern surveillance technology, and imposing harsher penalties on those found guilty of illegal timber activities. Moreover, the council called for the promotion of reforestation and afforestation initiatives to restore degraded areas and improve forest cover. Through concerted efforts and strong policy interventions, Pakistan can protect its natural heritage and promote sustainable development. The furniture industry, which relies heavily on timber, is also affected by the activities of the timber mafia.