Crackdown on canal encroachments ordered,1m saplings plan announced

SARGODHA, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Jun, 2026) A high-level meeting was held under the chairmanship of Commissioner Sargodha Division Hafiz Shaukat Ali to review environmental impact and the restoration of canal right-of-way,officials said on Friday.

The meeting was attended by officers of the Revenue,Forest,Irrigation and other relevant departments and reviewed issues including encroachments on canal land, environmental pollution, plantation drives, and improvement of waterways.

Officials briefed the meeting that steps were underway to protect government land along canals, remove illegal encroachments and improve environmental conditions in the region.

The commissioner stressed that restoration of canal right-of-way remained among the top priorities of the Punjab government, warning that no illegal occupation of state land would be tolerated.

He directed departments concerned to adopt a coordinated strategy to intensify action against encroachments and ensure effective protection of government land.

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Highlighting environmental concerns in the context of climate change,Hafiz Shaukat Ali said plantation,conservation of natural resources and promotion of ECO-friendly initiatives were the need of the hour.

He directed the Forest Department to plant 1 million saplings along canal banks by September and accelerate public awareness efforts regarding environmental protection.

The commissioner said restoration of canal corridors would improve water flow efficiency, support agriculture and contribute to environmental sustainability.

He further instructed all departments to ensure timely progress on set targets and strengthen monitoring mechanisms to achieve a clean, green and sustainable environment in line with the provincial government’s vision.