Pakistan is witnessing an alarming loss of nearly 11,000 hectares of forests every year, is fueled by wildfires, climate change, illegal logging, and rapid urban expansion rate. The Worldwide Fund for Nature-Pakistan has voiced concerns over the dwindling forest cover of the country, and it is suggesting for urgent conservation strategies to protect the environment.
A Nation Struggling with Forest Lo
Forests play a critical role in climate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and water management, Pakistan is considered to be one of the most forest-deficient countries, and just 5 percent of its land is covered by forests. Various factors are involved in worsening the problem:
- Expanding settlements
- agriculture-driven deforestation
- Commercial projects that are clearing vast areas of green cover
WWF-P emphasized the vitality of forests for food security and livelihoods on international forest day on 21 March, and it aligns with this year’s global theme: “Forests and Food.” The organization highlighted how forests deliver important food sources and act as natural barriers against flooding and climate change—issues that Pakistan is increasingly encountering.
Urgent Call for Action
Hammad Naqi Khan, Director General of WWF-P, has explained that forest conservation is not just an environmental concern but a social and economic necessity. Naqvi said that the major factors behind this continuous destruction are
- Illegal logging
- Weal law enforcement in forestry
- Lack of awareness
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Pakistan could encounter with rising temperatures, loss of biodiversity, and severe flooding if proper action is not taken at the right time.
WWF-P also gave warning regarding the widespread mangrove destruction along the coastline of Karachi, where large areas of precious mangrove forests are cutting down, especially for real estate and industrial development.
These kinds of ecosystems are extremely important for coastal protection and marine biodiversity, making their loss even more concerning.
A glance at the future without forests?
Pakistan may encounter various environmental disasters, food insecurity, and further climate-related crises if deforestation continues to happen. Conservation experts keep on emphasizing the government and citizens to take immediate steps, including
- Stronger regulations
- Afforestation projects
- Public awareness campaigns