MUZAFFARABAD: Residents of a village near the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) capital demonstrated remarkable bravery and resourcefulness on Wednesday by saving a significant portion of their forests from a raging wildfire.

According to witnesses, a wildfire broke out in the lush green forests of Chanjal Kabaya Galli, a village located about an hour’s drive southwest of Muzaffarabad, two days earlier. The fire had already reduced a large area of the jungle to ashes.

However, the villagers took it upon themselves to contain the fire, despite lacking proper firefighting equipment.

“Two days ago, the fire in the forest presented a terrifying scene, with orange flames licking tall trees, engulfing grassy fields, and chewing through dry undergrowth,” said Nauman Ahmed, a local youth who participated in the firefighting efforts. “It’s almost impossible to control such a firein this month when temperatures soar. But we did not give up and, praise be to Allah, we saved many vulnerable areas.”

The 24 years old added that there was a funeral in the village, but the community collectively decided to perform the burial earlier so that everyone could participate in the firefighting efforts.

Another volunteer, Khurshid Chaudhry, noted that wildfires were affecting many forested areas across the state. He emphasized that it was the responsibility of all residents to help protect these vital resources.

“Remember, it’s not just the responsibility of the government or any particular department to take care of forests. Every citizen must take ownership of this wealth because forests are the source of life for humans, animals, and birds alike,” he said.

He urged the government to allocate more resources for the protection of existing forests instead of focusing solely on reforestation.

“There is a growing sense of awareness among the younger generation about the significance of forests, and they want to protect them against wildfires. However, they lack the necessary equipment and resources,” he said, calling on the government to launch campaigns and form forest protection committees in various areas.

These committees should be provided with essential training and equipment to mitigate the dangers of wildfires, he stressed.

Published in Dawn, June 6th, 2024