The district administration of Mohmand has ramped up efforts to prevent forest fires following a series of wildfire incidents that have caused extensive environmental damage. This initiative comes amid growing concerns over the impact of climate change on the region's fragile ecosystem.
Coordination Meeting Chaired by Assistant Commissioner
Assistant Commissioner Lower Mohmand Noman Pervaiz chaired a meeting to review preparedness measures and strengthen coordination among departments responsible for forest protection, disaster management, and emergency response. Officials from Rescue 1122, the Forest Department, and Civil Defence attended the meeting to assess the increasing risk of wildfires in vulnerable mountainous areas and review existing response mechanisms.
Proactive Measures Emphasized
Participants stressed the need for proactive measures, including public awareness campaigns, continuous monitoring of fire-prone areas, strict enforcement of preventive regulations, and greater community participation in forest conservation efforts. AC Noman directed all relevant departments to remain vigilant and ensure effective coordination for a swift response to any fire emergency. He emphasized the strict implementation of Section 144, already imposed in the district, to prevent activities that could trigger forest fires during the ongoing dry season.
Environmental Challenges Highlighted
The meeting also highlighted the growing environmental challenges posed by rising temperatures, prolonged dry spells, and changing weather patterns, which experts believe have increased the frequency and intensity of wildfires in the region. More than 40 wildfire incidents have been reported in different parts of the district during the current season, particularly in the border areas of Baizai tehsil, Prang Ghar, Pandiali, and Safi tehsils. Several fires continued for days due to difficult terrain and limited access to affected locations.
Impact on Forest Cover and Wildlife
According to local residents, hundreds of acres of natural forest cover have been destroyed by the fires, reducing valuable herbs, shrubs, and grazing lands to ashes while causing severe losses to wildlife and bird habitats. The destruction has raised concerns about biodiversity loss, soil degradation, and the long-term impact on local livelihoods dependent on forest resources.
Rescue 1122 Response
Rescue 1122 spokesperson Abdullah said the emergency service had responded to 43 fire-related incidents across Mohmand district since its establishment in 2020. He said Rescue 1122 teams remained on alert and were working in coordination with relevant departments and local communities to contain fire outbreaks and minimize losses.
Climate-Related Challenges
Environmental observers warn that recurring wildfires are emerging as a significant climate-related challenge for the district, threatening forests that serve as vital carbon sinks and natural barriers against land degradation. They stress that effective wildfire management, community awareness, and stronger environmental protection measures are essential to safeguarding Mohmand’s natural resources from the growing impacts of climate change.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from all concerned departments to work jointly in strengthening prevention strategies, enhancing emergency preparedness, and protecting the district’s forests, wildlife, and ecological balance for future generations.
