Lahore: The Punjab government has abolished the century-old British-era Forest Act and introduced a modern, technology-driven system to enhance transparency, curb corruption, and strengthen environmental governance. The reform was launched under the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
Under the new system, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has become Punjab’s first government department to operate entirely through a paperless digital framework. Every official document generated within the system carries a unique reference number and QR code, allowing for instant verification and traceability.
All decisions, including their justifications, recommendations, and approvals, will now be digitally recorded and remain accessible at all times. The platform, named e-FOAS (e-File Online Approval System), has been made mandatory for all departments dealing with environmental matters. Any order, approval, or decision issued outside e-FOAS will be considered invalid, and officers bypassing the system will face strict disciplinary action.
The digital reform covers import permits, laboratory certifications, protection orders, and official government recommendations, ensuring a unified and transparent approval process across environmental institutions.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz praised the team responsible for implementing the system, stating that digitisation will minimize human interference, prevent illegal permits, and play a vital role in protecting the environment while effectively tackling corruption.
The move positions Punjab at the forefront of digital governance in environmental management, setting a model for other provinces to follow.
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