ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has taken notice of the wildfire on Margalla Hills, directing relevant authorities to swiftly mobilize and commence operations to control the blaze. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that no human lives are endangered by the fire.
The wildfire, which erupted on Monday in Margalla Hills National Park in Islamabad, has been attributed to a severe heatwave sweeping across the region. Romina Khurshid Alam, the Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, stated that personnel from the Ministry of Climate Change and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) are making every effort to contain the fire.
According to the CDA administration, the blaze broke out in three different locations within the hilly area. The heatwave has caused soaring temperatures across most parts of Pakistan. The Meteorological Department had previously warned that high-pressure conditions in the upper atmosphere would likely lead to the development of heatwave conditions, particularly affecting Sindh and Punjab.
The climate change ministry recently reported that approximately 26 districts are experiencing severe heatwave conditions, with the current spell of extreme temperatures expected to persist until May 30. Chief Meteorologist Sardar Sarfaraz indicated that temperatures could soar above 50 degrees Celsius between May 23 and 28.
The government’s quick response aims to mitigate the impact of the wildfire, protect residents, and prevent further environmental damage as the country grapples with the ongoing heatwave.
