- Advertisement -
LAHORE, Nov 20 (APP):Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has said that Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has taken a historic and revolutionary step for forest protection by formally launching satellite-based monitoring of all forests across the province for the first time.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the minister said that on the Chief Minister’s directives, advanced high-resolution satellite technologies — including WorldView-3, SPOT 6-7, Pleiades, PRSS-1, Landsat, and Sentinel-2 — are now being used to ensure real-time observation of forest areas, tree cover, and the overall ecosystem.
She said that live satellite feeds will instantly detect any illegal activity, tree-cutting, encroachment, or suspicious changes within designated forest zones. The Environmental Protection Force will be able to respond immediately based on the satellite-generated alerts.
According to the minister, for the first time in Punjab’s history, a complete electronic record of all forests is being compiled. This will curb land tampering, illegal occupation, and unauthorized changes. Satellite remote sensing will allow precise monitoring of ground-level developments and help identify suitable locations for future tree plantation drives.
The new system will also aid in early detection of forest fires, assessment of damage, and faster departmental response. On the special instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the satellite data will additionally be utilized for wildlife protection and environmental conservation activities, she added.
Marriyum Aurangzeb described the initiative as a landmark achievement in safeguarding Punjab’s environment, forests, and natural resources. She said the integration of advanced technology reflects the Chief Minister’s vision of an environmentally responsible, transparent, and technology-driven governance model.
She added that satellite monitoring will not only protect the province’s real forest cover but will also put an end to longstanding irregularities and illegal land grabs. The Punjab government, she emphasized, considers forest protection a national duty and is committed to laying a strong foundation for a healthier environment for future generations.