Two CDA officials suspended over tree cutting

ISLAMABAD - The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has suspended two officials following an incident of tree cutting in Sector F-8. Member Environment Abdullah Khurram Niazi initiated the suspension after learning about the removal of three trees and several branches. Sources claim that he promptly ordered the suspension of a forest guard and forester for their alleged involvement in the incident.

Previously, Niazi had suspended three officials in the Bhara Kahu area over allegations of encroachment on forest land. A forest guard in Sector I-14 was also suspended after a video emerged showing him accepting a bribe from a private contractor for dumping mud.

This brings the total number of suspended officials involved in such cases to six. Director General Environment Wing Irfan Niazi confirmed the suspension of the two officials in question. According to an official, at least six officials have been dismissed due to misconduct in recent days.

Additionally, a source revealed that another Environment Wing official stationed in Bhara Kahu received reprimand for alleged involvement in construction work on forest land. However, no action has been taken against this individual yet, according to the source.

The Environment Department has been actively cleaning up the area, with six officials suspended in the past 10 days. However, an official emphasized the need to closely monitor officers, as well as checking the status of challan tickets issued by the Environment Wing and the outcomes of the cases, particularly in the Bhara Kahu range.