Skardu: The Senate Standing Committee on Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan, and SAFRON, led by Senator Asad Qasim, held a meeting at the Commissioner's Conference Hall, Skardu, to review ongoing measures for forest protection and climate resilience in Baltistan Division.

The Secretary Forests briefed the Committee that more than 1.1 million cubic feet of illegal timber has been seized under the GB Forest Act 2019, while a comprehensive plan is being formulated for its sustainable utilization. The Commissioner Baltistan Division informed that new 100 MW solar and 60 MW hydropower projects are underway to reduce dependency on forest wood and promote alternative energy sources.

The Committee directed the GB government to expedite and share its Forest Working Plan and keep the Committee informed of any legislative or policy developments related to conservation and environment. Members of the Committee also participated in a tree-planting activity at the Administration Complex as part of the visit.

Later, the Committee reviewed the GLOF-II Project and Early Warning System (EWS) initiatives, emphasizing the need for enhanced coordination among departments to strengthen disaster preparedness and response capacity.

The meeting was attended by Senators Nadeem Ahmed Bhutto, Nasir Mahmood, and Ata-ul-Haq, along with Additional Chief Secretary (Development) Syed Waheed Shah, Joint Secretary Kashmir Affairs, DG Disaster Management Zakir Hussain, Commissioner Baltistan Division Kamal Khan, DC Skardu Hamza Murad, and heads of relevant departments.