28 December 2005
WWF – Pakistan concerned over cutting of Eucalyptus trees by PHA

LAHORE – WWF – Pakistan has raised its concern over the cutting of mature Eucalyptus in the park (Managed by PHA) located opposite Liberty market on the directives of Parks and Horticulture Authority (PHA) recently. WWF – Pakistan fears that these trees are being cut without any scientific planning and plantation of any substitute trees has not been planned so far.

Though, Eucalyptus is not indigenous and its plantation on a large scale is not recommended except in the water logging areas, but cutting of mature Eucalyptus trees is not a wise step. WWF – Pakistan fears that since parks in Lahore come under the PHA, there are chances that this unplanned activity can be carried out in other parks as well. There is need to conduct a scientific analysis of the trees before they are cut and also that the PHA authorities should define clear criteria for cutting the trees. Furthermore, WWF – Pakistan urges the PHA to cease the cutting of these mature trees that have been estimated to be over 30 years old.

This park is being used by the local residents of Gulberg for recreational purposes, WWF – Pakistan urges all nearby residents to also assert their rights as citizens and protest against this inappropriate cutting of mature trees.

For further information:
Amjad Aslam
WWF – Pakistan,
Ferozepur Road, Lahore.
Tel: +92 42 5862360, 5869429
Fax: 042 5862358
e-mail: aaslam@wwf.org.pk