Peshawar – Amid growing concerns over environmental degradation, the Peshawar High Court (PHC) has banned glacier cutting in Upper Dir, prompting the district administration to impose Section 144. The court acted on a contempt plea backed by video evidence. Experts warn the practice could harm water sources essential for wheat cultivation across Pakistan.
Read More: PHC Bans Illegal Glacier Cutting in KP to Prevent Climate Disasters
Court Acts on Video Proof
In its written order, the court noted that petitioner Tariq Afghan Advocate submitted a USB drive showing fresh glacier cutting in Upper Dir, despite earlier court orders. Afghan told Peshawar Post that court intervention became necessary because no specific law bans glacier cutting or the transport of natural ice.
“The notification itself acknowledges there is no clear law to stop glacier cutting or its transport,” he said. “This is why we filed the case – to urge lawmakers to legislate.”
Afghan stressed that Pakistan is highly vulnerable to climate change. He said glacier melting causes flash floods each year in mountain regions, resulting in loss of life and property.
“Glacier preservation is no longer optional,” he said. “It’s a necessity for survival. Legislation is the only long-term solution.”
Also Read: Peshawar High Court Bans Glacier Ice Harvesting in Northern Areas
Ban Imposed Under Section 144
The Peshawar High Court had already issued orders on 6 and 27 May, stopping the movement of glacial ice. In response, the Upper Dir administration enforced Section 144, officially banning glacier cutting in Upper Dir and its transport.
Officials clarified the ban will not affect the movement of essential items like wheat. They said this ensures that food logistics and agriculture supply chains remain intact.
Additional Assistant Commissioner Upper Dir Suhail Ahmad Shah, Additional Director Environmental Protection Agency Syeda Amina Hassan, and Additional Advocate General Taimoor Haider appeared in court. They admitted that no law currently regulates such environmental damage. However, they assured the court of immediate administrative action.
The Additional Deputy Commissioner confirmed that anyone violating the new Section 144 order will face legal action. A formal notification detailing the ban has been issued.
Environmental experts warned that continued glacier cutting in Upper Dir could threaten Pakistan’s already limited water reserves. The loss of glacial runoff would impact wheat production and rural livelihoods.
“Preserving glaciers is directly tied to our ability to grow wheat, feed our people, and support rural economies,” said one climate policy expert. “The climate clock is ticking. Inaction will have devastating results.”
The High Court has adjourned the hearing and requested a compliance report in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the petitioner urged both federal and provincial lawmakers to draft and pass laws aimed at glacier conservation.
