SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: A massive fire broke out in Khunkhela hilly area of Sararogha tehsil of Upper South Waziristan district on Monday, burning down hundreds of precious trees.

A Rescue 1122 spokesman said that a rescue team promptly arrived at the scene after receiving information about the fire. “The firefighters are currently engaged in efforts to extinguish the blaze.

However, intensity of the fire continues to increase, fuelled by strong winds, making it challenging for rescuers to control it,” he added.

The official said the cause of the fire remained to be known.

The incident marks the third such blaze hitting the area in the month of November, resulting in the destruction of thousands of valuable trees, leaving behind only ashes.

The frequent occurrence of blazes increases the need for effective measures to prevent fires in the region, ensuring protection to environment and natural resources.

Officials said that a rescue team was making efforts to control the blaze. They said that a more proactive approach was needed to prevent such incidents in the future.

The residents said that the authorities must take necessary measures to ensure the safety of the region’s biodiversity and natural assets.

Published in Dawn, November 26th, 2024