ISLAMABAD — A fire erupted in the forests of the Margalla Hills on Saturday, prompting an immediate response from local authorities, 24NewsHD reported. Officials said emergency teams acted swiftly and brought the blaze under control after hours of coordinated efforts.
According to a district administration spokesperson, relevant agencies responded as soon as the fire broke out within the limits of Islamabad and adjoining Punjab areas. Firefighters worked through the night to prevent the flames from spreading further across the wooded terrain.
Moreover, 34 firefighters from the Environment Directorate participated in the operation. They used specialized equipment and continuous water supply to contain the flames. Authorities confirmed that crews fully controlled the fire at approximately 2:15 a.m.
Cooling process continues to prevent flare-ups
Although teams extinguished the main blaze, officials said crews remain on site to carry out the cooling process. This step aims to eliminate residual heat and prevent any potential flare-ups in the affected forest area.
Furthermore, authorities monitored the situation closely to safeguard nearby residential zones and wildlife habitats. They did not immediately report any injuries or significant property damage.
The Margalla Hills, a protected natural area and popular recreational destination, often face fire risks during dry weather conditions. Therefore, officials urged residents and visitors to exercise caution and avoid activities that could ignite forest fires.
In addition, the district administration emphasized the importance of timely reporting of any signs of smoke or fire to ensure rapid intervention. Officials credited the coordinated response and overnight vigilance of rescue teams for preventing the blaze from escalating into a larger environmental emergency.
