KHUSHAB: A fire that erupted in the privately owned area of Dhok Miani in the Khushab district has spread to engulf the Skesar forest of the adjacent Nowshera Forest Range.
Despite challenges posed by intense heat and strong winds, concerted efforts led by various organizations have successfully brought the situation under control.
Senior Minister Maryam Ongzeb directed the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), district administration, and rescue workers to engage in round-the-clock fire control operations. However, access to the affected area, located near the top of Ag Pahar, was hindered due to its remote location.
Forest Department officials, along with around 80 personnel from the adjacent Pakistan Air Force Air Base, immediately mobilized to combat the fire. Tragically, Syed Ghulam Raza, an official of the Forestry Department, lost his life during the firefighting efforts, highlighting the risks involved in such operations.
Despite the challenges posed by the rugged terrain and adverse weather conditions, the combined efforts of the district administration, Rescue 1122, PDMA, and other organizations led to the successful containment of the fire. The situation is now under control.
Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Syed Ghulam Raza and offered prayers for his elevation. The efforts of officials from the Forest Department, led by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Mianwali, and the presence of Rescue 1122 teams from district Chakwal, under the leadership of Deputy Commissioner Khushab, were instrumental in extinguishing the fire.
