Ayub Tareen:
QUETTA: Ziarat Valley, renowned for hosting the world’s second-largest cypress forest, is witnessing a tragic loss of its valuable natural heritage. According to local sources, the indiscriminate felling of cypress trees has intensified, with dozens of trees being cut down and used for blinds. This alarming situation raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of the institutions responsible for managing and protecting these forests.
The cypress trees, which grow only one inch per year, are a national heritage. However, the funding allocated for their conservation is reportedly being misused, with crores of rupees distributed on political grounds rather than being utilized for the protection of the forests. Local sources reveal that from the conservator to the deputy conservator, the entire system appears to be in disarray, allowing the continuous and unchecked cutting of these ancient trees.
The onset of winter has only exacerbated the situation, as illegal logging activities have increased. In the Chautir area of Ziarat, where no official writ seems to exist, the destruction of cypress trees continues unabated. The absence of the Deputy Conservator of the Forest Department in District Ziarat has further compounded the problem, with forest employees neglecting their duties, as evidenced by the cutting of dozens of trees.
Tourism, a significant contributor to Ziarat Valley’s economy, is also at risk. Millions of tourists visit the valley to experience its ancient and beautiful cypress forest. The failure of the Conservator of Sibi Division to visit and address the situation in Ziarat has left the local community and environmentalists calling for immediate action. There is an urgent need for a responsible and dedicated non-local officer to take charge and ensure the protection of these invaluable forests before it’s too late.
