SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: A devastating wildfire that erupted on Tuesday evening in the mountainous area of Chaghmalai, Upper South Waziristan district has been brought under control after a rigorous fire fighting operation.

According to rescue officials, the fire spread across nearly two-kilometre area, incinerating hundreds of valuable chestnut and olive trees. The efforts of fire-fighter team prevented the blaze from spreading further to nearby villages.

Talking to Dawn by telephone, South Waziristan rescue coordinator Shan Wazir said the fire broke out unexpectedly in Chaghmalai hills and rapidly spread in multiple directions due to dry conditions and strong winds.

“Upon receiving alert, our fire-fighting team reached the location immediately. Despite darkness, steep terrain and high winds, rescue personnel continued operation throughout the night with unwavering resolve,” he said.

Mr Wazir said the fire could have posed a serious threat to human settlements, local infrastructure and wildlife if the team had not responded swiftly. “Our team’s timely intervention averted what could have been a much larger environmental and humanitarian disaster,” he added.

Eyewitnesses said that flames engulfed dense clusters of chestnut and olive trees within minutes, filling the sky with thick plumes of smoke. The rescuers’ professional conduct and efforts drew praise from local community, who expressed gratitude and admiration for their bravery and skill.

It is worth noting that several wildfire incidents have been reported this year in both Lower and Upper South Waziristan’s mountainous regions. Environmental experts attribute these recurring fires to the impacts of climate change and human negligence. They have called for urgent measures to mitigate future risks.

Locals and environmentalists have urged authorities to devise a comprehensive, long-term forest protection strategy. They say that such disasters highlight the urgent need for proactive fire prevention policies and sustainable conservation efforts in the region’s vulnerable ecosystems.

Published in Dawn, April 25th, 2025