Balanced approach for forest harvesting stressed

ABBOTTABAD: A former chief conservator of on Tuesday called for a balanced approach to forest harvesting on the basis of scientific management and sustainable development.

“We as foresters are never against forest harvesting. We support the socio-economic uplift of the local community by maintaining accountability and transparency, “ former chief conservator of Forests, Hazara Division, Syed Muqtada Shah told reporters.

He shared his insights on forest management practices, particularly focusing on forest harvesting. Shah emphasised that harvesting was an integral part of forest management while ensuring transparency and employing appropriate methodologies were paramount.

Expressing concerns over fast-track harvesting, Shah cautioned that it could compromise transparency and undermine the sustainability of forest resources. He called for adopting a balanced approach that considers both economic benefits and environmental preservation. The ex-officials also advocated forest management practices for uplifting the socio-economic conditions of the local communities.