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. Every official document generated under the new system will carry a unique reference number and QR code, allowing instant verification and traceability.
All decisions—along with their justifications, recommendations, and approvals—will be digitally recorded and remain accessible at all times. The new 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 deemed invalid, and officers bypassing the system will face strict disciplinary action.
The digital reform also covers import permits, laboratory certifications, protection orders, and official government recommendations, ensuring a unified and transparent approval process.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz commended 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.
