Strict ban on matches, flammable products and picnics in forests from April 15 to July 15
RAWALPINDI:
The Forest Department has declared the period between April 15 and July 15 as ‘fire season’ to ensure protection and conservation of government forests across Rawalpindi division including the hill tehsils of Murree, Kotli Sattian, Kahuta, Kallar Syedan and Margalla Hills.
During these three months, there is an increased risk of forest fires.
As per fire season rules, it is prohibited to carry matches, cigarettes, lighters, saws, axes, daggers and knives in dense forests, including those in Murree, Kotli Sattian and Margalla hills.
In addition, lighting wood fires for picnics, barbecues, making tea or cooking, as well as the use of gas cylinders and stoves in forests, have also been prohibited.
A Forest Department spokesperson said embers from fires can burn for a long time and can ignite dry leaves, causing dangerous forest fires. Citizens and families have been urged to refrain from lighting fires in forests or face action.
Temporary offices for sub-division forestry officers are being set up in forest areas during the fire season. Closed-circuit cameras have been installed on key routes for 24-hour monitoring, while field staff will carry out patrols on bicycles, motorcycles and even horses and mules.
To combat possible 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 Prime Minister’s guidelines to protect the forests from fires during the summer.
