Two saw machines sealed in Mansehra

MANSEHRA: Two saw machines were sealed and wooden beams seized in Chaja area of Siran valley, an official said on Sunday.

“The government has not issued licences to any saw machine near forests in Siren valley to curb timber smuggling and those found in breach of the laws would be taken to task,” said Bilal Khan, sub-divisional forest officer for Siran valley. He said the government was having zero-tolerance for the timber smuggling, which was why his department launched a crackdown against saw machines functioning near forests in Siran valley, known for its high peaks and natural beauty.

“I appeal to people to extend their support in bringing timber smuggling to an end and inform us if they find deforestation and saw machines in their localities or anywhere in the Siren valley,” he said. He added that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government was working on a strategy to open the Siran valley to nature lovers and tourists from within the country and abroad, which might also generate livelihood resources for locals.

“This valley is no doubt a heaven on earth if we preserve its natural beauty and I suggest the timber smugglers to switch over to legal businesses like tourism, otherwise we would never allow them even to touch a single tree,” he added.