DEVASTATING fires have frequently affected regions like Gadar, Osaki, Talash, Timergara, Asbanr and Khanpur, but nothing appears to have been done so far to address the issue. Forests take up carbon dioxide, produce oxygen, control soil erosion, help conserve water and minimise flood and landslide risks. They also provide livelihood to the local population and play a significant role in environmental sustainability.

The incidents occur almost every year, but the public is still unaware of what the cause is, who is responsible for them, and what is being done to prevent them from occurring again. These fires may be due to carelessness, or perhaps they are deliberate, or, they might be weather-related events. Regardless of the cause, the problem is persistent enough to require immediate attention.

The conservation of these valuable natural resources is a shared responsibility of various government agencies. More than firefighting, attention needs to be focused on the prevention side of these unfortunate events, like monitoring, spreading awareness, taking swift action, and holding accountable anyone found responsible for environmental damage.

Historically, Lower Dir’s forests have been valuable natural assets. With present destructive practices, future generations may find themselves with barren lands rather than the green hills that have long been the hallmark of the district.

Given the abrupt increase in climatic events, preserving forests is more than an environmental duty; it is a responsibility towards our communities, towards our wildlife and towards our collective future.

Muhammad Izhar
Lower Dir

Published in Dawn, August 3rd, 2026