In a significant move to improve forest protection, the Forest Department has decided to equip Forest Rangers with 150 motorbikes in Multan, along with provision of arms to enhance their operational capacity and ensure effective safeguarding of forest resources.
Officials said that the initiative is aimed at improving mobility and response time of field staff, enabling them to better monitor forest areas and prevent illegal activities such as timber theft and encroachments.
In a major administrative shift, Forest Rangers, previously known as Forest Guards, have now been granted the status of a force, strengthening their authority in the field. Furthermore, Block Officers have been upgraded and redesignated as Forest Inspectors, reflecting an effort to streamline the department’s structure and improve efficiency.
Sources in the department revealed that similar measures have already been implemented in several districts where motorbikes have been provided, while deliveries in Multan are currently underway.
Additionally, it has been decided that all new recruits in the Forest Department will undergo full police-style training, equipping them with the necessary skills to handle enforcement responsibilities more effectively.
The move is being seen as part of broader efforts to protect dwindling forest cover and tackle environmental challenges in the region through improved enforcement and modernization of the department.