Fire again breaks out at Margalla Hills, one suspect arrested

ISLAMABAD: A fire has once again broken out in the Margalla Hills National Park and multiple agencies have been mobilized to contain the fire. One suspect has been arrested and handed over to the police.

Black smoke and flames have been reported in the Ghandian Kalanger area and in front of the E-9 hills. This is the latest in a series of fires in the area, following incidents earlier this week on Trail 3, Trail 5, and in Sector E-11.

According to wildlife spokesperson, thirty wildlife officials are currently engaged in firefighting efforts. Additionally, teams from the CDA and other rescue agencies are on-site, working to control the blaze.

Wildlife authorities have also apprehended a suspect allegedly involved in starting the Margalla Hills fire and handed him over to the police.

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Romina Khurshid Alam, advisor to the PM on environment said, “There are two locations where the fire is burning, with a particularly intense blaze in front of the E-9 hills.” She added that she has contacted the Chairman of NDMA for assistance.

To combat the fire, a helicopter from the Pakistan Air Force has been dispatched, and a team from the Pakistan Navy is also participating in the firefighting efforts. The Islamabad Municipal Corporation team is actively involved as well.

“We have requested additional support from the Sixth Aviation Squadron,” Romina Khurshid Alam noted. “The Ministry of Climate Change is in continuous contact with all relevant agencies, and I am personally monitoring the situation.”

Efforts are ongoing to bring the fire under control and prevent further damage to the national park.