A number of residents of Kunar province claim that forests in the province, as well as in some areas of Nuristan, are being extensively cleared, with the timber being transported through illegal routes, including in government vehicles.
Local residents say that the forests in the Karangal and Kalaygal areas, near Chapadara, are facing a serious threat. According to them, reports have emerged that permission has been granted for the transportation of thousands of truckloads of timber from Karangal and Kalaygal.
They allege that the timber comes from freshly felled trees and that the timber trade in the area has also become increasingly active.
One local resident says that large quantities of timber are currently being transported from mountainous areas through smuggling routes and also in government vehicles.
Some residents allege that a number of Taliban officials are financially benefiting from the timber trade and its transportation. According to them, certain individuals obtain permits or orders in Kabul, reportedly in exchange for money, authorizing the logging of forests and transportation of timber, which is then transported to other provinces.
Local residents also say that the forests of Nuristan located along the border with areas of Kunar’s Dara-e-Pech district are being extensively cut down.
Residents of Karangal and Kalaygal have called on Taliban authorities to prevent the logging of forests and the transportation of timber and to protect the region’s natural resources.
Writer:Saeed Sameer
