The Punjab government has abolished the British-era Forest Act and introduced a modern, technology-driven system designed to curb corruption and strengthen environmental governance. Launched under the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the reform aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and efficiency across environmental and forestry institutions. With this transformation, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has become Punjab’s first government department to function entirely through a paperless digital framework. The new platform, named e-FOAS (e-File Online Approval System), has been made mandatory for all departments dealing with environmental matters. The digital reform also covers import permits, laboratory certifications, protection orders, and official government recommendations, ensuring a unified and transparent approval process.

Source: The Nation December 22, 2025 19:32 UTC