The Punjab government has replaced the British-era Forest Act with a modern, technology-driven system aimed at eliminating corruption and improving transparency in forest and environmental governance.
Under the new framework, all departments linked to forests and environmental protection will operate through a fully digital mechanism, making the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) the first provincial government department to completely abolish paper-based processes. Officials said the move is designed to curb forgery, illegal permits and discretionary decision-making.
According to the new system, every official document will carry a unique reference number and a QR code, allowing instant verification. All decisions, including their justifications, recommendations and approvals, will be digitally recorded and remain accessible at all times. Authorities said no order, approval or administrative decision related to environmental matters will be issued outside the digital platform.
The digital system, known as e-FOAS, has been made mandatory for issuing orders, approvals and licenses. EPA Director General Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh has issued a formal notification warning of strict disciplinary action against any officer or staff member found bypassing the system.
As per the notification, import licenses, laboratory certifications, protection orders and official recommendations will now be issued exclusively through e-FOAS. Any document, verification or approval issued outside the system will be considered illegal and invalid under the new rules.
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz praised the team involved in implementing the reforms, stating that reducing human intervention is key to eliminating fraud and unlawful permissions. She said the government is committed to protecting the environment while simultaneously ensuring transparency and accountability.
