Lahore High Court Orders Protection of Takht Pari Forest, Action Against Encroachments
The Lahore High Court has directed the Forest Department to ensure an uninterrupted water supply to trees and newly planted saplings in Takht Pari forest, and to take prompt legal action against encroachments, illegal tree cutting and arson.
In a written judgment, Justice Jawad Hassan of the court’s Rawalpindi bench ordered regular patrolling and proper monitoring of saplings to protect the forest from damage. The Takht Pari forest lies in Rawalpindi and has faced threats from encroachment, tree cutting and fire, which prompted a citizen to seek the court’s intervention.
Justice Hassan observed that forests are an important heritage of both the public and the state. The judgment was issued on a petition filed by Muhammad Rameez, who had approached the high court seeking measures to protect the forest.
Court links Takht Pari forest protection to fundamental rights
Justice Hassan noted that climate change is no longer a future threat but a present reality, and stressed the need to protect coming generations from its harmful effects. He added that the court has a role in mitigating the effects of climate change for future generations, and that environmental protection is a fundamental right guaranteed under Articles 9 and 14 of the Constitution.
Action ordered against encroachments and tree cutting
The judgment directed the department to ensure that forest land is not occupied or used for unauthorised purposes. It was also ordered to take prompt action in line with the law against illegal encroachments and to ensure effective monitoring and protection of the forest. The judgment further directed that legal proceedings be initiated against those involved in cutting trees or setting fire to the forest. The court appreciated the efforts made by the Forest Department and other respondents to protect trees.
46,000 saplings planted under plantation campaign
During the proceedings, the Forest Department informed the court that 46,000 trees had been planted in Takht Pari forest under the Punjab chief minister’s plantation campaign. The ruling was reported by The Express Tribune on Saturday.
Forests play a growing role in Pakistan’s climate defence. Pakistan ranks among the countries hardest hit by climate change, facing more frequent floods and heatwaves (Pakistan Among Worst Hit by Climate Change). In the north, changing weather patterns are already threatening communities such as the Kalash valleys of Chitral (Climate Change Threatens Kalash Life). A complete guide to floods in Pakistan traces the causes and history of these recurring disasters.
What did the Lahore High Court order?
The court directed uninterrupted water supply for trees and saplings, regular patrolling, monitoring of saplings, and prompt legal action against encroachments, illegal tree cutting and arson in Takht Pari forest.
Who filed the petition?
Muhammad Rameez approached the Lahore High Court’s Rawalpindi bench seeking measures to protect Takht Pari forest.
How many trees were planted in the forest?
The Forest Department told the court that 46,000 trees had been planted there under the Punjab chief minister’s plantation campaign.
