The Punjab government has abolished the traditional timber auction system, imposing an immediate and indefinite ban on all tree cutting and wood auctions across the province.
According to the official notification, the suspension also applies to firewood auctions and will remain in place until further notice. New transparent procedures, supported by modern technology and mapping systems, will be introduced to regulate the process.
The Forests, Wildlife, and Fisheries Department has been directed to strictly enforce the order. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated that the move aims to protect forests, curb deforestation, and reduce land erosion.
Future timber-related dealings will require proper documentation with photos and videos to verify the wood’s origin and condition.
For years, the old auction system had been criticized for encouraging large-scale tree cutting under legal cover, with financial gains benefiting only a few. The new reform is being welcomed as a landmark step for environmental protection and stronger governance in Punjab’s forestry sector
Another initiative was taken by Punjab government For Preserving Forests
