NEELUM (Kashmir English): A Forest Magistrate in Azad Kashmir has directed a person to plant 30 saplings on his private land in punishment for cutting trees.
The Court also imposed a fine of Rs15,280 on Mohiuddin, a resident of village Sheikh Bela Dudniyal, for cutting deodar trees. The court in its ordered said that the man would also take care of the planted saplings for at least 10 years.
According to details, Forest Magistrate Neelum, Saqib Mahmood slapped the fine on Mohiuddin for cutting deodar trees.
Protection for trees
The court, under its decision, also appointed forest guards as supervisors who will submit a report to the Magistrate every month to ensure that the trees are properly protected and cared for.
Saqib Mahmood stated that the person should realize how valuable and essential trees are.
Saqib Mahmood took charge as a magistrate on March 24, 2025, and this was his first case. He said his decision would help protect trees.
Environmental expert Shafiq-ur-Rehman praised the court verdict, saying that such measures will not only help prevent the current environmental crisis but can also become an effective model for forest conservation in other areas.
