RAWALPINDI: In a significant ruling with far reaching implications, the Lahore High Court Rawalpindi Bench has disposed of a petition seeking to halt tree cutting in Takht Pari Forest, while declaring environmental protection a constitutional duty directly linked to the right to life.

Justice Jawad Hassan, in a detailed judgment, stressed that safeguarding forests is not merely an administrative responsibility but a legal obligation under Articles 9 and 14 of the Constitution. He also highlighted Article 9A, which guarantees future generations the right to a clean and healthy environment.

The petition, filed by Muhammad Rameez, raised serious concerns about illegal tree felling and ecological degradation in the Takht Pari area. However, during proceedings, the Punjab Forest Department submitted reports outlining corrective measures taken after earlier court intervention.

According to officials, over 46000 saplings have been planted under the Plant for Pakistan campaign, alongside dry afforestation on 180 acres. Authorities have also repaired fencing and installed water ponds and tanks to ensure survival of new plantations.

Despite these efforts, the court was informed that nearly 755 acres of forest land remain under illegal encroachment by private housing societies and individuals, highlighting the scale of environmental challenges facing the region.

While disposing of the case, the court issued strict directions to prevent further damage, including a complete ban on illegal tree cutting, enhanced monitoring, and action against encroachments. The ruling reinforces the urgency of addressing climate change as an immediate crisis and signals stronger judicial oversight to protect Pakistan’s shrinking forest cover.