ISLAMABAD: Forests across Punjab continue to fall victim to devastating fires, with over 6,000 acres of land reduced to ashes during the past three years.
According to official records obtained by Dunya News, a total of 268 forest fire incidents were reported in Punjab over the last three years, affecting 6,117 acres of forest land. Nationwide, 479 incidents of forest fires were recorded, damaging nearly 15,497 acres in total—of which Punjab accounted for about 40 percent.
The data reveals that 2024 proved to be the worst year for forest fires in recent history. In 2023, Punjab reported only four incidents, burning 25 acres. However, the situation worsened dramatically in 2024, when 165 fire incidents destroyed 3,363 acres of forest. In 2025 so far, 97 incidents have been recorded, ravaging another 2,729 acres.
In Balochistan, two incidents in 2024 burned 590 acres, while 14 incidents this year have destroyed 4,629 acres. Sindh recorded five incidents in total, affecting 63 acres. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 60 fire incidents in 2024 turned 1,235 acres to ash, though no fires have been reported in 2025. Islamabad witnessed 17 incidents in 2024 and 31 so far this year, affecting 336 acres collectively.
Experts attribute the rising frequency of wildfires to climate change, illegal logging, negligence, and prolonged dry weather. The Forest Department has recommended awareness campaigns, technological monitoring, and restoration of fire lines to prevent future disasters.
