KP CM Sohail Afridi Launches Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Illegal Logging and Timber Mafia, Orders Strict Action on Wildlife Crimes
Independent Report
Peshawar, November 4, 2025
Peshawar: Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sohail Afridi, has announced a zero-tolerance policy against illegal tree cutting across the province and directed strict action against the timber mafia. Speaking at a high-level meeting with the Department of Environmental Change, Forests, and Wildlife, the CM emphasized that forests are a national asset, and exploitation will not be tolerated. He ordered that criminal cases be registered against all involved in illegal logging activities.
CM Afridi further instructed the authorities to identify areas for new forest plantations and called for a full crackdown on illegal hunting and wildlife trade, stating that violators will be immediately arrested and subjected to strict legal action. He highlighted that KP government is committed to ensuring wildlife protection according to international standards.
The meeting also approved tough legal reforms and increased penalties to strengthen forests and wildlife protection laws. CM Afridi noted that existing legal loopholes have allowed exploitation of national resources, and directed all relevant departments to propose measures to make these laws more effective and enforceable.
Officials provided a comprehensive briefing on departmental performance and achievements:
242,782 cubic feet of illegally cut timber seized from 2018 to October 2025.
PKR 5.6 billion generated in Forest Development Fund, with over PKR 2.5 billion in revenue collected.
GIS mapping completed for 3,217 industrial units, 720 brick kilns, and 879 crushing plants.
On environmental pollution, officials reported that 57% of smog in Peshawar is caused by vehicular emissions, and CM Afridi directed installation of advanced flood and cloudburst forecasting mechanisms. He also requested a special briefing on Makhniyal Forest and carbon credit initiatives.
