Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) Lahore has decided to strictly enforce the existing ban on the cutting and pruning of trees across the provincial capital. PHA Lahore Managing Director Raja Mansoor Ahmad, chairing a meeting here on Wednesday, issued clear directives that no tree shall be cut, damaged, or uprooted without proper authorization.

He emphasized that even minor trimming, pruning, or cutting of branches cannot be undertaken without prior written approval from the competent authority, irrespective of the purpose, including electricity line clearance, safety requirements, or beautification initiatives. All Directors, Project Directors, and In-Charge Officers have been instructed to further strengthen monitoring mechanisms within their respective jurisdictions. T

hey have also been directed to immediately convey these instructions to field staff, supervisors, and gardeners to ensure strict compliance at every operational level. The Managing Director underscored that the protection of urban greenery was essential for environmental improvement, reduction of air pollution, and mitigation of climate change impacts.

He warned that any violation of these directives would invite strict action under the relevant laws. PHA was committed to preserving Lahore’s green cover and promoting a clean, healthy, and environmentally sustainable city, he added. 

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)