Reports have emerged regarding the large-scale collection of natural herbs by certain non-local individuals in the Buhrik Nallah area of Darkot, Gilgit-Baltistan. Fears are being expressed that these activities could damage the region’s natural environment and flora.
According to local sources, some of the individuals involved hail from Chilas and Kohistan; reports indicate they are sustaining their operations by offering financial incentives to locals. Sources further claim that, alongside the collection of herbs, activities involving the extraction of precious stones and other minerals are also underway.
Local circles argue that if these activities continue without legal authorization, oversight, and adherence to environmental regulations, they could deplete the region’s natural resources and create serious environmental challenges for future generations.
Locals have urged the district administration, the Forest Department, the Minerals Department, and other relevant bodies to take immediate notice of the situation and conduct a transparent investigation into the activities at Buhrik Nallah. They have also demanded effective monitoring and legally mandated checks on individuals and vehicles passing through the Darkot check post to prevent the potential illegal transport of natural resources and curb any suspicious activities.
Local stakeholders emphasized that this issue is not directed against any specific area or community but concerns the preservation of Darkot’s natural resources and environment. They maintain that natural herbs, precious stones, and mineral resources are a collective asset of the region, and their protection is a shared responsibility of the relevant authorities and the local population.
Share this content:
