BAHAWALPUR:An eight-hour fire destroyed forest vegetation and shrubs worth millions of rupees over an estimated 30 to 35 acres in parts of the Lal Sohanra National Park, located about 35 kilometres from Bahawalpur city.
According to Rescue 1122 Bahawalpur, the fire broke out shortly before Maghreb prayers on Friday in the forest area near 36-RD within Lal Sohanra National Park. The blaze spread to several locations, affecting approximately 30 acres of jungle land.
The fire engulfed trees and bushes in areas that were difficult to access with firefighting equipment. Rescue officials said efforts to contain the blaze were carried out using water supplied through hydrants mounted on six fire engines. The firefighting operation continued for more than six hours, and although the fire was brought under control after midnight, several spots continued to simmer.
Rescue 1122 officials said an incident command post was established inside the affected forest area. The fire-hit zone was divided into three sectors to facilitate effective monitoring and rapid response in the event of any flare-ups. Two fire engines, an ambulance and a disaster response vehicle were deployed in each sector.
According to rescuers, the fire was largely controlled at the central point, with only bushes continuing to burn after midnight.
However, on Saturday morning, smoke was still billowing from some trees and shrubs.