July 19, 2008	Saturday	Rajab 15, 1429

KARACHI, July 18: Sindh Home Minister Dr Zulfiqar Ali Mirza, who also holds the portfolio of forests, has directed the forest secretary to intensify the efforts to check illegal felling of trees and illegal transportation of timber to protect forestry and environment.

He issued the directive after taking notice of the reports pertaining to the mass destruction of mangroves in Karachi. It was suggested in press reports that the coastal areas of Sindh, particularly Karachi, were being deprived of mangroves. The reports also suggested that land-grabbers had occupied vast lands in the coastal belt in connivance with some officials of the forest, police and other departments.

The home minister asked the secretary to inquire into the matter and take strict action against those involved in such practices.

The forest department has already formed a “rapid party” for Karachi to protect mangroves in Rehri, Ibrahim Hyderi and other coastal areas from destruction.

—APP