DEFORESTATION is one of the most alarming issues faced by Pakistan. The deforestation rate in Pakistan is estimated to be between 0.2 per cent and 0.5 annually, which is among the highest in the world.

According to a survey, forest cover has decreased from 3.59 million acres to 3.32 acres at an average rate of 27,000 acres annually. The sectors consuming wood on a large scale are domestic, industrial and commercial,using 81.80 per cent, 14.90 per cent and 3.30 per cent, respectively.

The annual wood consuming rate in different corners of the country has become 43.76 million cubic metres whereas the forestation rate is 14.40 cubic metres only suffering a loss of 29.36 million cubic metres each year.

Theforest coverin the country seems to be reducing at such a dangerous speed that experts predictthat all forest area is going to be consumed thoroughly within 15 years.

Most importantly, the CNG shortage in recent days has greatly added the usage of wood, which is going to bring a horrific change in climate.

Hence, the authorities concerned ought to get a grip over the situation, asitis the need of the hour.

ZAKIYA RAHEEMTurbat