Abbottabad forests declared restricted zone as section 144 imposed to prevent fire hazards

ABBOTTABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd May, 2026) The district administration Abbottabad has imposed Section 144 across forest areas as part of a preventive strategy to protect forests from fire incidents amid dry weather conditions and rising temperatures.

Deputy Commissioner Sarmad Saleem Akram issued the orders, stating that the decision was taken in view of the increased risk of forest fires during the ongoing dry spell. Under the directive, strict precautionary measures have been enforced across all forest regions of the district.

According to the notification, several activities have been strictly prohibited under Section 144, including campfires, bonfires, fireworks, and any cooking-related open fire activities within or near forest areas.

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The orders also ban setting fire to grass, bushes, or forest vegetation, throwing lit cigarettes or other flammable materials, and cutting trees.

The restrictions have been implemented with immediate effect and will remain in force for two months.

The district administration has urged citizens and tourists to cooperate fully in protecting forests and the natural environment, and to promptly report any suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.

Officials warned that strict legal action will be taken against violators under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).