Press Release Title: Senator Faisal Saleem Rehman, Convener Sub-Committee of the Senate Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and States and Frontier Regions presiding over a meeting of the committee at Parliament House, Islamabad

Press Release Date: 15th July, 2026

Senate Sub-Committee Reviews Forest Management, Illegal Logging and Security Issues in Gilgit-Baltistan The Sub-Committee of the Senate Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs, chaired by Senator Faisal Saleem Rehman, reviewed the regulatory framework for forest contractors and sustainable forest management in Gilgit-Baltistan.   Officials informed the Committee that forests are privately owned by local communities, while forestry operations are regulated through scientific working plans. Contractors highlighted concerns regarding heavy penalties, security deposits, delays in felling operations, and lack of consultation in agreement drafting.   The Committee directed the Forest Department to review pending contractor cases dating back to 1992, submit the 2002 Working Plan, and provide a comparative analysis of the existing felling sequence. Members were also informed that offenders involved in illegal logging face fines equal to three times the market value of timber, while 57 seized vehicles remain in departmental custody. The Committee decided to conduct an on-site inspection of confiscated timber and vehicles and was informed that forest check posts are being monitored through 86 CCTV cameras.   Contractors also raised concerns over security challenges, transportation delays, rising costs, and attacks on workers in remote areas. The Committee directed the Forest Department to address operational difficulties, discourage frivolous complaints, and ensure lawful forestry activities are facilitated without compromising security or sustainable forest management.   The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to curbing illegal logging, ensuring transparency, protecting private investment, and promoting sustainable forest management in Gilgit-Baltistan.