by Ana-Maria Pavalache
Behind the Image
As one reaches the top of the treacherously steep road to Sultanabad, the view opens up onto a vast pasture, surrounded by steep slopes and towering peaks. Concentrated on the southerly slopes of the main valley, toward the high pasture of Challabat, are the upper forests of Basho - the largest natural forest in the mountainous region of Baltistan. For generations, the local community managed this forest in order to satisfy their food and livelihood needs. However, according to the valley elders, forest resources have decreased over the last 30 years to a point where there is a serious concern by villagers and government officials alike that unless changes in management occur, the forest will virtually disappear in the near future.
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