Forests of Pakistan: Types, Importance and Deforestation (O Level Geography)

Forests of Pakistan questions usually ask for forest types and locations, the importance of forests, and the causes and effects of deforestation.

Quick answer: Forests cover only about 5% of Pakistan’s land. The main types are alpine, coniferous, tropical thorn (rakh), riverain (bela), mangrove and irrigated plantations. Deforestation is caused by fuelwood cutting, timber demand, farming and urban growth, and leads to soil erosion, floods and silting of dams.

Types of Forest and Where They Are Found

• Alpine: high northern mountains; stunted trees because of cold and snow.
• Coniferous: northern areas such as Murree, Swat and Kaghan; deodar, pine and fir used for timber.
• Tropical thorn (rakh): dry parts of Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan; thorny bushes used as fuelwood.
• Riverain (bela): along the Indus and its tributaries; shisham and babul.
• Mangrove: Indus Delta and coast; breeding ground for fish and shrimp, protection from waves.
• Irrigated plantations: man-made forests such as Changa Manga.

Importance of Forests

• Timber, fuelwood and raw materials for furniture, paper and sports goods.
• Roots hold soil and reduce erosion and flooding.
• Habitat for wildlife; tourism and recreation.
• Absorb carbon dioxide and moderate climate.

Causes of Deforestation

• Cutting for fuelwood where gas is not available.
• Demand for timber and illegal logging.
• Clearing land for farming, roads and housing.
• Overgrazing that stops young trees growing.

Effects of Deforestation

• Soil erosion and landslides on slopes.
• More frequent and severe floods.
• Silting of reservoirs such as Tarbela and Mangla, reducing storage and power.
• Loss of wildlife habitat.

Solutions

• Afforestation and reforestation programmes.
• Supplying gas and alternative fuels to mountain areas.
• Laws against illegal cutting, and community forestry.
• Public awareness.

Exam Tip

Link deforestation to other topics: silting connects it to water resources and hydel power. Examiners reward these links.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much of Pakistan is covered by forest?

Only about 5% of Pakistan’s land area is covered by forest, which is far below the level recommended for a healthy environment.

Where are mangrove forests found in Pakistan?

Mangrove forests are found in the Indus Delta and along the coast of Sindh and Balochistan.

What are the main causes of deforestation in Pakistan?

The main causes are cutting for fuelwood and timber, clearing land for farming and settlements, and overgrazing.