ISLAMABAD: A fire broke out once again in Islamabad’s Margalla Hills, prompting an emergency response from CDA and the district administration.

According to a spokesman for the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration, firefighters from the CDA were called into action after a blaze erupted in the Margalla Hills. He said more than 70 firefighters were taking part in the operation to control the fire.

District administration officers also reached the site to support the efforts and confirmed that the fire had been brought under control earlier in the day, but it reignited due to dry conditions and winds.

“Efforts are underway again. Our teams are working to bring the situation under control shortly,” the spokesman said.

The fire erupted in the forested area causing concern among authorities and residents due to the ecological importance of the hills. These hills are part of the Margalla Hills National Park.

Water tankers, fire extinguishers and manual tools were used by the firefighter teams. Volunteers from local communities and park staff also joined the operation.

The spokesman said the area needed continuous monitoring. The flames flared up again in the afternoon and fresh teams were sent to stop it from reaching nearby areas.

The cause of the fire is still being investigated. Initial reports suggest it may have been triggered by human activity or the dry weather.

The CDA has asked people visiting the hills to avoid lighting fires or leaving behind materials that can catch fire, such as glass bottles or plastic.

Published in Dawn, May 20th, 2025