Once again, the Margalla Hills found themselves in the grip of flames on Friday, prompting concerted efforts to contain the inferno, according to the Capital Development Authority.
The CDA reported that over 80 firefighters were deployed to the scene, focusing their efforts on the central area after successfully controlling the fire from the periphery. Additional teams were dispatched to bolster extinguishing endeavors, noted CDA spokesperson Kamran Aslam.
Under the close supervision of Environment Director Asif Majeed, who received directives from CDA Chairman Mohammad Ali Randhawa, the operation was closely monitored. The presence of the assistant commissioner on-site underscored the seriousness of the situation.
Challenges arose due to high-speed winds and scorching temperatures, complicating the firefighting efforts, Aslam emphasized. Nevertheless, he reassured that all available resources were being marshaled to combat the blaze.
Margalla Hills, spanning 12,605 hectares, witness recurrent fire incidents annually, with a notable flare-up occurring just days prior, extinguished only after an exhaustive eight-hour operation involving 15 separate incidents.
Amid suspicions of human involvement, the interior minister initiated an inquiry, calling for the registration of a first information report (FIR) and the establishment of a committee to probe the fires.
In subsequent meetings, CDA Chairman Randhawa, also the Islamabad chief commissioner, convened with city police officials, pledging to uncover any potential human involvement in the blazes.
Administration of the Margalla Hills is divided between the CDA and the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board, which have grappled with internal discord. Some officials speculate that the fires may be a deliberate attempt to exacerbate tensions between the two bodies.
The recent incidents gained prominence when fires in the Saidpur range were quelled after an arduous seven-hour operation, aided by helicopter support.
Subsequently, flames erupted in the Noorpur range, prompting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to intervene.
