Forests, wildlife, environment protection among government’s top priorities: Commissioner Hazara

ABBOTTABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 24th May, 2026) Commissioner Hazara Division Fayyaz Ali Shah Sunday said that the protection of forests, wildlife and the environment is among the government’s top priorities, directing all relevant departments to ensure immediate and effective measures through a coordinated strategy to prevent forest fires during the summer and Eid-ul-Azha season.

He expressed these views while chairing an important meeting regarding forest fire prevention and precautionary measures in Hazara Division, attended by officers of the Forest Department. The meeting reviewed the potential risks of forest fires due to dry weather conditions, rising temperatures and the expected influx of tourists during Eid-ul-Azha.

The meeting decided that district-level coordination meetings would be held across all districts, while the concerned Assistant Commissioners would be held responsible in case of fire incidents in private forests, reserved forests, guzara forests and areas surrounding water reservoirs.

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Directives were also issued for the installation of cameras at sensitive locations, conducting joint mock exercises between the Forest Department and other institutions, and activating emergency response systems to improve monitoring and rapid response capabilities.

The commissioner emphasized increasing special patrols during Eid, creating awareness among tourists regarding fire prevention, and strengthening public awareness campaigns. He also appreciated the proposal to establish a plant nursery in Naran and provide saplings to tourists for planting, stating that tree plantation and eco-friendly activities would contribute to forest conservation.

During the meeting, instructions were also issued for strict action against illegal timber transportation and individuals involved in violations, while the district administration and relevant departments assured full cooperation in implementing the preventive measures.