Punjab Imposes Immediate Ban on Tree Cutting and Timber Auction

Lahore – On the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Punjab government has imposed an immediate ban on tree cutting and timber auction across the province.

For the first time in Punjab’s history, the traditional system of timber auction has been abolished. The government announced that new transparent rules and regulations will be developed using modern technology and mapping tools.

A formal notification has been issued, stating that under the previous auction system, large numbers of trees were ruthlessly cut down, with the financial benefits going into a few pockets.

The Directorate General of Forests, Wildlife, and Fisheries has been directed to ensure strict implementation of the order.

According to the notification, all forms of timber auctions, including fuelwood, have been suspended until further notice. The Chief Minister said the move aims to protect Punjab’s forests and prevent land erosion. In the future, high-quality videos and photographs will be required prior to any auction process to ensure transparency.