MUZAFFARGARH: A wildfire has erupted in the Leshariwala Jungle, spread over more than 10,000 acres along the Taunsa Barrage.

The fire brigade could not control the fire and its officials were helpless in the face of the fire. The forest was a game reserve and a wildlife sanctuary until the government ended that status. This area was known for its animals once upon a time and the people would visit it for picnic. Many Pakistani films were also picturised in it.

Ghulam Fareed, a local resident, told Dawn that more 48 hours had passed and the fire had spread across the jungle where more than 500 wild animals like deer and rabbits and the birds, including quail, partridge and other migratory birds, were burnt alive.

Asghar Wahga, another local, said some people of Gaadi families were living in the forest and they used to protect the animals until an MPA threw them out while other occupants were busy taking the wood.

Kot Addu Assistant Commissioner Dr Fiaz Jatala visited the forest with his team but nothing was being done to control the fire.

On Thursday, Irrigation Secretary Saif Anjum, who was also additional chief secretary south Punjab, took notice of the fire and formed a team to probe the incident.

Wildlife District Officer Sidra said her team was assessing the loss of wildlife in the fire, which could not be controlled yet.

Deputy Commissioner Amjad Shoaib Tareen said he was looking into the matter.

Published in Dawn, March 12th, 2021