Chitral, May 13, 2026: In a move to curb rapid deforestation and dismantle illegal logging networks, the Lower Chitral district administration has banned the use of chainsaw machines across all forested areas in the region.
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Deputy Commissioner Rao Hashim Azeem issued the directive in a notification under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.
Speaking to this correspondent, Mr Azeem said the decision stemmed from growing concerns over the depletion of forest cover, which poses a direct threat to the region’s ecological balance, wildlife habitats, and natural beauty.
Deforestation – a growing concern
He said the mechanical efficiency of chainsaws had historically accelerated the pace of unauthorised timber felling, making the ban a necessary intervention for environmental preservation.
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He said that under the new regulations, the use of chainsaws by any individual within forest boundaries was strictly prohibited, and violators would face legal action.
Mr Azeem said that relevant departments and law enforcement agencies had been tasked with the strict implementation of the ban.
Forest cutting, timber movement banned
He appealed to local elders, the public, and stakeholders in the forestry sector to act as custodians of natural resources and cooperate with the authorities by reporting illegal logging activities to help safeguard the environmental heritage of Lower Chitral.