Forests form an important part of the wealth of a
country; and in Pakistan, the preservation of the forests is so important that
it has long been taken over by the Government, and is in charge of the
Government Forest Department. Forests make the country beautiful. They are real
wealth of the country. Govt. is doing its best to make the forests better.
Forests have a great influence upon climate; for
they attract rain and preserve moisture -- an important matter in a dry country
like Pakistan. The leaves of a tree are always giving off moisture; and this
constant evaporation cools the surrounding atmosphere. In consequence, when
moisture-laden winds blow over a forest, the moisture they carry is condensed
and forms clouds, and these dissolve in rain. This is not mere theory. It has
been proved that the destruction of forests of any extent quickly changes the
climate of the while district. Whereas before it had an abundant rainfall,
after dis afforestation the rainfall became scanty. The land went out of cultivation
arid became an arid desert. On the other hand, afforestation, or the planting
of forests, will turn a desert into a well- watered and fertile district.
Further, forests on hill sides do much to prevent
destructive floods. When heavy rain falls on bare hills, it rushes down at once
to the plains in roaring torrents, carrying parts of the hill with it, and flooding
the country below. But when the hills are covered with forests, the tree and
the spongy soil they create absorb a large part of the water, and allow the
rest to flow down to the plains quietly and without any destructive effects. Bare
hills cause erosion while forest irrigates the fields. Forests enhance the
beauty of the country as well. Greenery has. Soothing effects on the eyes.
Forest products,, especially timber, form an
important part of a nation’s wealth. The Pakistani forests supply all the
timber that is required in the country, and much is exported. The sale of it
bringing in very respectable revenue to the State. The most beautiful furniture
is made; of wood and it is got from the forest. Wood work is common all over
the world but forest. Is the only source of it?
Forests also provide abundant fuel to the districts
nearby. And so enable the zamindar-to keep the dungs for enriching their lands,
instead of being obliged to burn this valuable manure as fuel. Most of the villagers’
burn wood to male food. They can use this fuel on cheaper rates.
The planting and preservation of forests is
therefore a matter of great importance. Every government tries its best to make
the county more and more green. Without forest, we cannot have even wild life.
Forests are very important for the wild life as well.