BAHAWALPUR: An eight-hour fire destroyed forest vegetation and shrubs over an estimated 30 to 35 acres in the Lal Sohanra National Park.

According to Rescue 1122, the fire broke out before Friday evening in the forest area near 36-RD within the park. The blaze spread to several locations, affecting approximately 30 acres and engulfed trees and bushes in areas that were difficult to access with firefighting equipment. Firefighters said efforts to contain the blaze were carried out using water supplied through six fire engines. The operation continued for more than six hours. However, on Saturday morning, smoke was still billowing from some trees and shrubs.

The administration of Lal Sohanra National Park did not issue any official statement regarding the fire or the extent of damage. But Rescue 1122 estimates suggest that between 30 and 35 acres of forest land weas impacted.

Published in Dawn, June 14th, 2026