In a decisive move for environmental conservation, the Punjab government has issued immediate orders to halt all unauthorized tree felling and trimming activities across the provincial capital. The directive aims to protect Lahore's dwindling green cover and urban forest.
Strict Directives from the Top
Acting on the instructions of the Punjab government, the Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) has enforced a comprehensive ban. Raja Mansoor Ahmed, the Managing Director of the Horticulture Agency, has mandated the strict implementation of these orders. He has made it clear that the unauthorized cutting of any tree is now strictly prohibited within the city's limits.
No Pruning Without Permission
The new regulations are notably stringent, extending beyond just the felling of trees. The PHA has clarified that even minor pruning work will not be allowed without obtaining prior written permission from the relevant authorities. This step is intended to prevent the misuse of trimming activities as a cover for removing trees entirely.
Increased Vigilance on the Ground
To ensure the ban is effective, all PHA directors and field staff have been instructed to heighten their vigilance. Their responsibilities now include actively monitoring areas to prevent any violations of the new environmental protection order. The government's move underscores a growing recognition of the critical role trees play in combating urban heat and air pollution in a megacity like Lahore.
This immediate ban reflects the administration's commitment to preserving the city's environmental health and aligns with broader efforts to promote sustainable urban management in Pakistan.
