Strict ban on matches, flammable products and picnics in the forest from April 15 to July 15
RAWALPINDI:
The Forest Department has declared the period from April 15 to July 15 as “fire season” to ensure protection and conservation of government forests across Rawalpindi division, including the hilly tehsils of Murree, Kotli Sattian, Kahuta, Kallar Syedan and Margalla Hills.
During these three months, the risk of forest fires is increased.
Under fire season regulations, it is prohibited to carry matches, cigarettes, lighters, saws, axes, daggers and knives into dense forests, including those in Murree, Kotli Sattian and Margalla Hills.
Additionally, it is also prohibited to light wood fires for picnics, barbecues, making tea or cooking, as well as using gas bottles and stoves in forests.
A Forestry Department spokesperson said embers from fires can smolder for a long time and ignite dry leaves, causing dangerous wildfires. Citizens and families were asked to refrain from lighting fires in the forests, otherwise there would be a reaction.
Temporary offices for sub-divisional forest officers are established in forest areas during the fire season. Closed-circuit cameras have been installed on key routes for 24-hour surveillance, while field staff will conduct patrols on bicycles, motorcycles and even horses and mules.
To combat potential fires, large ponds have been built in dense forests to store rainwater, which can be used immediately in the event of a fire. These ponds will also serve as a water source for wildlife.
The Rawalpindi divisional forest officer said that all necessary measures have been taken as per the directives of the chief minister to protect forests from fire during summer.
