The Senate Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON visited Baltistan Division on 21 October 2025 to review forest protection and climate resilience measures. The session chaired by Senator Asad Qasim took place at the Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Skardu and focused on concrete steps to safeguard fragile mountain ecosystems.
The Secretary Forests reported that more than 1.1 million cft of illegal timber has been seized under the GB Forest Act 2019 and that authorities are preparing a comprehensive plan for its regulated use. Committee members stressed the need for timely sharing of a formal forest working plan so that oversight and restoration work can proceed without delay. The focus on Gilgit Baltistan forests included calls for expanded enforcement and participatory management with local administrations.
Officials highlighted that alternative energy projects will help reduce pressure on woodlands. The Commissioner Baltistan Division outlined plans for a 100 MW solar installation and a 60 MW hydropower scheme that are expected to supply cleaner energy to communities and lessen dependence on forest fuel. During the visit, committee members also participated in a sapling planting at the Administration Complex to underline practical reforestation commitments.
The Committee reviewed progress on the GLOF-II Project and the Early Warning System, urging stronger coordination among disaster management, forest and local government departments to improve response to glacial lake outburst floods. Senators Nadeem Ahmed Bhutto, Nasir Mahmood and Ata-ul-Haq attended alongside Additional Chief Secretary (Development) Syed Waheed Shah, the Joint Secretary Kashmir Affairs, DG Disaster Management Zakir Hussain, Commissioner Baltistan Division Kamal Khan, DC Skardu Hamza Murad and other departmental heads. The Committee directed the GB government to keep it informed of any related legislation or initiatives and to share updates on enforcement and conservation measures.
