Forest dept declares ‘fire season’ in Rawalpindi

Cancels leaves of field staff, bans inflammable items in forest areas

RAWALPINDI:

In an attempt to prevent forest fires, the forest department has officially declared ‘fire season’ in the Rawalpindi Division and cancelled the leaves of field staff.

As the heat of the summer season intensifies, the danger of forest fires in the twin cities increases.

Additionally, temporary camp offices have been established in all forests for sub-divisional officers and block officers.

To protect the forests of Margalla Hills, Murree, Kotli Sattian, Kahuta, and Kallar Syedan, it is strictly prohibited to carry certain items into the forest areas that could potentially harm the environment. These prohibited items include axes, knives, saws, matches, cigarette lighters, gas cylinders and kerosene oil stoves.

Picnic parties, barbeques, making tea and lighting any kind of fire have been strictly prohibited in the forests. Strict action will be taken against those who violate the rules. Close-circuit cameras have been installed on all paths of the forests. Field staff have been equipped with armed walkie-talkies and motorcycles to swiftly respond to any incidents.

Furthermore, field staff have been instructed to take proactive measures to prevent forest fires. To achieve this, the officers will make sure to clean up fallen leaves from the forests and completely get rid of dry trees, which will be deposited in government warehouses. These measures aim to minimise the risk of forest fires.

In preparation for the expected season of forest fires, orders have been issued to complete all necessary preparations for immediate fire extinguishing procedures. To this end, ponds have been established in the forests to collect and store rainwater. These ponds will serve to provide a readily available water source to quickly extinguish fires and quench the thirst of wildlife, such as waterfowls.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 1^st, 2024.