Rapid increase in felling of trees for firewood in PoGB is contributing to public health crisis

In addition to exacerbating the environmental problems in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB), the region’s public health issue is being exacerbated by the increased tree-cutting for firewood. The area’s woods are fast being destroyed, which exacerbates climate change and poses a number of health problems as residents fight to remain warm throughout the severe winters.

People in Gilgit-Baltistan depend on wood to stay warm since the region is frigid. Regrettably, this is causing forests to be destroyed, and as a result, the issue is becoming worse as glaciers melt and temperatures drastically change. According to a local, “deforestation is a serious issue that needs to be controlled immediately.”

In addition to accelerating climate change, PoGB’s continuous deforestation is making the area more susceptible to natural catastrophes. The loss of trees, which are essential for supporting the soil, raises the possibility of landslides, especially in the region’s steep, hilly regions.

“The risk of landslides is increased when forests are cut down. If we protect the forests, the land is better protected.” However, removing them has detrimental effects. Another person said, “If we do not act immediately, the environment will deteriorate.”

Air pollution is another concerning problem that is made worse by deforestation. To remain warm throughout the winter, many residents burn wood in addition to other items, such as plastic tires. Thick smog produced by this practice drastically deteriorates air quality and increases the prevalence of respiratory illnesses, including asthma and other breathing issues.

“If people are burning plastic tires or other plastic items along with wood, it harms their health and worsens the air quality,” said Khadim Hussain, a resident of PoGB. Asthma, respiratory problems, and even eye discomfort are brought on by this pollution inside. There has been a noticeable rise in these health problems,” he said.

Residents and environmental experts are calling on the government to act quickly as the area struggles with increasing pollution, deforestation, and threats to public health. They caution that if nothing is done, the situation will only get worse, resulting in more serious environmental damage and public health emergencies.