13/05/2026
The destruction of Chichawatni forests — who is responsible?
Officials, forest guards, or political interference — citizens raise serious questions
The forests surrounding Chichawatni have once again become the center of public attention, where alleged negligence, poor supervision, and uncontrolled grazing of livestock have reportedly caused severe damage to thousands of valuable plants and trees. Citizens, social circles, and environmental organizations have expressed deep concern over the rapid destruction of the forests and have raised questions about the performance of the relevant authorities.
According to local residents, cows, buffaloes, and goats are freely grazed daily in different parts of the forest, resulting in newly planted saplings being destroyed within days. Citizens say that the government spends millions of rupees every year on tree plantation campaigns, protection of plants, and forest restoration, but the ground realities appear completely different.
Residents of the area have alleged that in some places forest guards and staff are failing to fulfill their responsibilities, while others claim that animals belonging to politically influential individuals are openly released into the forests and no one dares to stop them. This situation has raised an important question: who is truly responsible for the destruction of the forests — the concerned officers, forest guards, or political interference?
Citizens believe that if grazing inside the forest is completely banned and proper protection of plants is ensured, the forest could become dense and green again within just a few years. One resident remarked, “If the entry of animals is stopped, so many trees would grow that it would become difficult even to pass through the forest.”
Environmental experts state that forests are not merely a source of timber; they play a vital role in reducing environmental pollution, maintaining moderate temperatures, improving rainfall systems, and protecting wildlife. The destruction of forests, they warn, could worsen future environmental crises.
Social organizations have demanded that the Government of Punjab and the Forest Department immediately stop illegal grazing in the forests, take action against responsible officials, and introduce an effective modern monitoring system to protect the plants and trees grown with public funds.
Public circles have also expressed hope that if the government and relevant institutions take serious measures, the Chichawatni forests can once again become lush, green, and dense forests.
