CHITRAL: A massive environmental scandal has come to light in the Arandu forest region of Lower Chitral, where a notorious ‘timber mafia’ has allegedly chopped down 6,821 deodar trees, causing irreparable damage to one of the province’s densest forest reserves.

According to reliable sources, an initial inquiry into the illegal logging suggests that the volume of timber extracted from these trees amounts to a staggering 1.356 million cubic feet.

The Arandu forest, situated in the southern part of Chitral near the Pak-Afghan border, is renowned for its high-quality deodar wood, making it a frequent target for illegal exploitation.

Preliminary investigations have identified 11 individuals suspected of being directly involved in the operation. The initial inquiry report reportedly details the specific number of trees felled by each individual and the corresponding volume of timber illegally harvested.

Lower Chitral DC says those found guilty to face law

Lower Chitral deputy commissioner Rao Hashim Azim confirmed to Dawn that the chief secretary had taken strict notice of the report and formally ordered a high-level inquiry into the matter.

“The divisional forest officer of the Chitral forest division has been assigned the task of conducting a thorough investigation,” DC Azim said. He added that a comprehensive report is being compiled, which will serve as the basis for legal proceedings.

The DC vowed that those found guilty would face the full force of the law, including immediate arrests and the initiation of criminal cases.

PRICE HIKE: Chitral Assistant Commissioner Riaz Ahmed has called upon the public to actively support the district administration in curbing ‘artificial’ price hike and profiteering during the holy month of Ramazan.

He issued these directions during a surprise inspection of various markets across Chitral city on Sunday.

Interacting with consumers and shopkeepers, he emphasised that public vigilance is a vital component in maintaining the stability of food prices and ensuring that the benefits of official subsidies reach the common man.

During the visit, he issued strict instructions to citizens not to pay even a single penny above the officially notified price list. He further urged consumers to remain vigilant against vendors selling underweight bread (roti), a practice he warned would not be tolerated.

“The administration will deal with profiteers and hoarders with an iron hand,” AC Ahmed stated. “Those attempting to exploit the public during this blessed month will face strict legal action, including heavy fines and imprisonment.”

To ensure the immediate redressal of public grievances, the district administration has established special monitoring desks at key locations throughout the city which are tasked with receiving and processing complaints regarding overcharging, hoarding, and short-weighing.

Published in Dawn, February 23rd, 2026