Raging Margazar wildfire threatening populated area in Swat
Stay tuned with 24 News HD Android App
The wildfire which engulfed the Margazar forest area in Swat is spreading fast and the flames have started leaping towards populated area of the scenic tourist spot, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Sunday.
The rescue officials who have been trying to put out wildfire which broke out in Margazar forest on Saturday night have so far remained unsuccessful in their efforts as fire is getting out of control and rushing towards the populated area.
“The fire is hurriedly rushing towards our homes. It’s a pity that rescue officials are trying to douse fire with the help of plants as they are not equipped with any firefighting equipment,” the residents lamented who feared for the safety of their lives and property.
Wildfires have become rampant in Pakistan for the last several days as severe heat and gusty winds are becoming instrumental in the fire breakouts in forested areas.
On Saturday, authorities submitted a report regarding wildfire to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government.
According to this report, 3 people have been killed in incidents of fire that broke out at 210 places in the forests and bushes of the province during the ongoing summer season.
The report pointed that humans were involved in over 26 per cent of these cases, while 27 FIRs were registered.
However, causes of fire in over 60 per cent of these cases could not be ascertained.
Furthermore, the report reveals that less incidents of fire were reported from the forests that are looked after by the government.
It also identifies extremely high temperatures and less rains as one of the causes of rains.
The report stresses the need for identifying high-risk, medium-risk and low-risk areas in the province where fires could erupt.
Similarly, it calls upon the authorities concerned to ensure that the special units of Rescue 1122 should have access to the high-risk areas.
It has been pointed out in the report that the rumour that the government pays to those affected by fires might be one of the reasons for such incidents.
The report urges the government to purchase planes in order to deal with such calamities in future.
Reporter Subhan Allah