With the onset of the hot summer months, the Forest Department has initiated a "Fire Season" in the Rawalpindi division, specifically targeting the forests of Murree Galyat, Margalla Hills, and other surrounding areas.
The Fire Season will remain in effect until July 15 and aims to prevent wildfires in these areas.
As part of the fire season, strict measures have been introduced to reduce the risk of fire outbreaks caused by tourists and picnickers.
A ban has been imposed on activities such as lighting fires, using matches, or smoking in the forests of Murree, Margalla Hills, Kotli Sattiyan, and other nearby areas.
Forest officials' leaves have been cancelled and temporary offices have been set up in the forests for better monitoring.
Surveillance cameras have also been installed at key forest entrances to ensure compliance with the regulations.
Murree DFO Mohammad Sudhir emphasised that stricter monitoring is now in place, particularly in the dense forests of Kotli Sattiyan and the surrounding areas.
Forest guards and staff are being equipped with motorcycles, bicycles, and necessary safety equipment to patrol and monitor the forests more effectively.
Moreover, significant measures have been taken to protect government forests from fire outbreaks.
Dead leaves, branches, dry grass, and other combustible materials are being cleared regularly.
In addition, large ponds have been created to store rainwater, which will be used to extinguish any fire outbreaks in the forests.
The Forest Department is committed to reducing the impact of wildfires and has implemented preventive measures to address the situation.
If the summer heat persists, the Fire Season could be extended until July 31.
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