The GIS-Based Protection Regime and Establishment of Digital Communication Cell in the Forestry and Wildlife Department is a technology-driven project being implemented at the Forest GIS Lab, Lahore, to strengthen monitoring, protection, and management of natural resources across Punjab. With operational oversight by the Chief Conservator of Forests (Planning, Monitoring & Evaluation), Conservator of Forests Development Working Plan Circle, and the GIS Manager, Forest GIS Lab Lahore. The project operates in coordination with the Ministry of Climate Change, Government of Pakistan.
The primary objectives of the project include forest change detection using satellite and drone technologies over approximately 1.06 million acres, compartment-level resource mapping and digitization of legacy records, and the establishment of a geo-spatial and digital communication center for forestry. The initiative also covers AI-based forest fire detection and surveillance (pilot study), forest biomass estimation using LiDAR technology at 20 forest sites, and strengthening of field formations through provision of drones and technical human resources across 11 circles and 33 forest divisions. In addition, the project includes the creation of an IT-based public awareness and content development cell, a centralized digital control room for resource surveillance and operational monitoring, and technology-focused capacity building for 150 forest officers and officials.
Total Project Cost: Rs. 1,200.000 million
Project Duration: 36 months (2024–25 to 2026–27)