Lahore: The Punjab government has officially enforced the Forest Amendment Act 2025 to strengthen the protection of forests in the province. The Act, which has been approved by the Governor of Punjab, provides the Forest Department with significant new powers aimed at combating illegal logging, encroachments, and environmental crimes.
Under the new law, the Forest Department has been granted the status of a formal force, enhancing its authority to protect forest resources. Additionally, the government has decided to establish Forest Protection Centers across the province to improve monitoring and safeguarding of these natural resources.
The Act also introduces a new structure for officials such as Sub-Divisional Officers (SDOs), Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs), and Block Officers. These officers will now have the authority to file FIRs, arrest offenders, and present them in court. This move is expected to speed up the process of taking action against illegal logging and encroachments, as well as tackling environmental violations more effectively.
The Forest Amendment Act 2025 also includes provisions for imposing heavy fines and strict penalties on those involved in illegal logging, encroachments, and other forest-related crimes. In addition, stricter legal action will be taken against individuals who violate environmental laws, ensuring that the protection of natural resources is prioritized.
The Governor of Punjab has issued immediate orders for the implementation of this law and has instructed relevant authorities to accelerate the process to ensure effective forest conservation. Government officials have stated that the Forest Amendment Act 2025 will prove to be a significant milestone in environmental protection in Punjab, with positive outcomes expected in the near future.
