Three Individuals Detained for Illegal Tree Cutting in Karachi’s Central District

Authorities Take Action Against Tree Cutting Near Buffer Zone

KARACHI: Authorities have detained three individuals for their alleged involvement in illegal tree cutting near People’s Chowrangi in the Buffer Zone area of Karachi, officials confirmed on Monday.

According to official sources, the Assistant Commissioner of North Nazimabad lodged a case against the three suspects at Taimuriya Police Station. The action was taken following reports of unauthorized tree removal in the area.

FIR to Be Registered Against the Accused

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Central, Taha Saleem, stated that legal proceedings will move forward once a First Information Report (FIR) is formally registered against the detained individuals.

He emphasized that the district administration will not tolerate negligence or unlawful activities related to tree cutting, describing it as an environmental crime that carries serious consequences.

“Any act that damages the environment will be dealt with according to the law,” he said.

Environmental Impact of Tree Removal

Officials highlighted that the removal of old and mature trees has a damaging effect on Karachi’s environment. Such actions contribute to ecological imbalance and further worsen the challenges posed by climate change.

Environmental experts have repeatedly warned that mature trees play a critical role in maintaining air quality, reducing urban heat, and supporting biodiversity. Their removal can have long-term consequences for both the environment and public health.

The city has already been facing increasing temperatures and environmental pressures, making the protection of existing green spaces more important than ever.

Mayor Murtaza Wahab’s Earlier Warning Against Tree Cutting

The recent action comes months after Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab announced strict measures against those involved in cutting trees across the metropolis.

In January this year, the mayor took notice of the growing trend of tree cutting in different parts of the city and directed authorities to take legal action against those responsible.

He instructed the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) Horticulture Department to register cases against individuals found involved in illegal tree removal.

Tree Cutting Declared a Crime

Speaking on the issue earlier, Mayor Murtaza Wahab made it clear that tree cutting is a punishable offence and that no individual would be permitted to remove trees that contribute positively to the city’s environment.

“Tree cutting is a crime, and no one will be allowed to remove environment-friendly trees,” the mayor had stated.

He further warned that strict action would be taken against anyone involved in cutting trees located along roads managed by the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation.

Karachi Administration Promoting Tree Plantation

Mayor Wahab also reiterated the city administration’s commitment to increasing greenery across Karachi through large-scale plantation initiatives.

According to him, efforts are being made to expand tree plantation activities throughout the city, while urban forests are also being developed in parks that fall under the jurisdiction of the KMC.

The administration believes that increasing green cover is essential for improving environmental conditions, combating climate-related challenges, and creating a healthier urban environment for residents.

Officials have once again urged citizens to support environmental protection efforts and report any incidents of illegal tree cutting to the relevant authorities.