A massive fire erupted in the Gazara forest area of Murree, rapidly engulfing a significant portion of the woodland. Local residents have taken it upon themselves to combat the blaze, citing a lack of timely response from the authorities.
Residents Blame Forest Department
According to eyewitnesses, the fire spread quickly due to dry conditions and strong winds. Residents expressed frustration, claiming that the Forest Department's inefficiency and negligence have led to recurring fire incidents. They stated that precious trees, wildlife, and birds are destroyed each time, causing irreversible damage to the ecosystem.
Environmental Impact
The continuous fires are severely harming the environment and depleting valuable natural resources, the residents added. The smoke and loss of vegetation are also affecting air quality and local biodiversity.
In a related incident on May 11, 2026, a tragic fire broke out in a van that fell into a nullah on the Islamabad-Murree Expressway near Khajut, resulting in 10 deaths and 13 injuries. Meanwhile, Attock police have arrested five anti-social elements in connection with recent unrest.
