ISLAMABAD: In view of a fire audit of the Margalla Hills being undertaken by the capital administration, all trails have been closed for eight days.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mohammad Hamza Sahfqaat, said four fire-related incidents have already taken place in different areas, including Mulpur and Ramli, in the last 10 days.

Keeping this in view, the capital administration decided to conduct a fire audit at the national park, he added.

In this regard, all trekking trails in the hills will remain closed from Dec 22 to 29th, Mr Shafqaat said, adding that during this period, cleanliness and maintenance works would also be carried out. Due to prevailing dry weather and in the absence of rain, chances of fire incidents increase on the hills, the DC said, adding that heaps of garbage in the national park also led to fires.

Most of the time, fires start due to negligence of people who come to the park and throw cigarettes.

In the wake of the recent fire incidents on the Margalla Hills, it has been decided that the fire audit of the area will be carried out, a notification issued by the DC office stated, adding that all trekkers/visitors are requested to avoid visiting trails during the period.

Published in Dawn, December 23rd, 2021