ASADABAD (SW) – The local tribes in Kunar on Monday promised to safeguard the natural forests in the province.
The provincial directorate of agriculture, irrigation and livestock has helped establish up to 80 local councils to safeguard the forests. These local councils inked an agreement with the government in the provincial capital Asadabad.
Abdul Aziz and Bedar Haji are two such elders from Asmmar and Pech Dara districts respectively. They vowed if the government stayed committed to its promises, they would do their part in safeguarding the forests.
According to the directorate of agriculture, irrigation and livestock, the forests in Kunar comprise of some 25 per cent forests in the whole country. It was said that despite the relative peace over the past many years, up to 33 per cent of forests in Kunar have been cut and the wood smuggled to other provinces and even abroad.
The tribal representatives alleged many powerful individuals and government officials are involved in the cutting of trees and smuggling of timber.
Inamullah Safi, director for agriculture, irrigation and livestock, said on the occasion that the untiring efforts by the locals and the government have helped reduce the cutting of trees to some extent. He claimed the woods continue to be cut in areas under the influence of the rebels.
Abdul Sattar, the provincial governor, said he would try to convince the president, Mohammad Ashraf Ghani, to appoint members of the local community as park rangers to safeguard the forests. He said those tasked with safeguarding the forests would be held accountable if trees are cut in the area.
ENDS
