SC takes suo moto notice of possible mass tree felling in Balochistan

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court (SC) took suo moto notice on Saturday of the possible mass-cutting of trees in Balochistan for extending a road.

An application was filed before the apex court that the 10-kilometre Pishin-Yaroo Link Road was being extended in Pishin District and over 2,200 trees would be cut down for this purpose.

The applicant told the court that these trees could be saved by earmarking an alternative route but none of the departments working on the project had any interest in conserving the area’s environment.

Trees are imperative for the drought-prone and hilly areas of Balochistan, the applicant added.

Previously, reports on the issue were sought from the communication and works department secretary, the forest secretary and the provincial environmental protection agency.

The reports revealed that the extension would be a potential threat to 2,200 trees.

Chief Justice of Pakistan Saqib Nisar ordered that the matter be registered as a suo moto notice.

Source: The Express Tribune