21 October 2025: The Senate Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON visited Baltistan Division to review forest conservation and climate resilience measures, meeting at the Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Skardu under the chairmanship of Senator Asad Qasim. The visit focused on practical steps to strengthen Forest Protection while advancing local energy projects and disaster preparedness.
The Secretary Forests informed the committee that more than 1.1 million cubic feet of illegal timber has been seized under the GB Forest Act 2019 and that a comprehensive plan is being prepared for its regulated use. The briefing underlined the need for an up-to-date forest working plan to guide restoration and enforcement activities across GB.
The Commissioner Baltistan Division highlighted planned energy interventions, saying that a 100 MW solar scheme and a 60 MW hydropower project are expected to provide alternative energy sources and help reduce pressure on forest resources. Committee members noted that expanding renewable energy will be central to long-term forest protection and climate resilience in the region.
Committee members directed the GB government to share the forest working plan promptly and to keep the committee informed of any related legislation or initiatives. As a symbolic step reinforcing on-ground commitment to conservation, senators and officials planted saplings at the Administration Complex in Skardu during the visit.
The delegation also reviewed progress on the GLOF-II Project and the Early Warning System (EWS), urging stronger coordination between relevant departments to ensure effective disaster response and community safety. The meeting was attended by Senators Nadeem Ahmed Bhutto, Nasir Mahmood and Ata-ul-Haq, 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.
