Strict ban imposed on matches, flammable material, picnic in forests from April 15 to July 15
RAWALPINDI:
The forest department has declared the period from April 15 to July 15 as the “fire season” to ensure protection and conservation of government forests across the Rawalpindi division, including the hilly tehsils of Murree, Kotli Sattian, Kahuta, Kallar Syedan and Margalla hills.
During these three months there is an increased risk of forest fires.
According to the fire season rules, carrying matches, cigarettes, lighters, saws, axes, daggers and knives is prohibited in dense forests, including those in Murree, Kotli Sattian and Margalla Hills.
In addition, it is also forbidden to light firewood for picnics, barbecues, preparing tea or cooking, as well as using gas cylinders and stoves in forests.
A Forest Ministry spokesman said that embers from fires can smolder for a long time and can ignite dry leaves, leading to dangerous forest fires. Citizens and families have been urged to refrain from lighting fires in forests, or face action.
Temporary offices are established for sub-divisional forest officers in forest areas during the fire season. Closed-circuit cameras have been installed on key routes for 24-hour surveillance, while field personnel 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 that can be used immediately in the event of a fire. These ponds will also serve as a water source for wildlife.
The Forest Officer of Rawalpindi Division said that all necessary measures have been taken under the Chief Minister’s guidelines to protect the forests from fires during the summer.
