AS the forest fire season ravages Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), it is impe- rative to highlight the devastating consequences for human beings, wildlife and biodiversity in the affected areas. The recent surge in forest fires is destroying natural resources and pushing endangered species to the brink of extinction.

Unfortunately, the human cost is also staggering, with villages as well as towns affected, livelihoods lost, and severe health implications from toxic fumes and particulate matter released by burning of forests.

Wildlife habitats are decimated, and the natural food chain is disrupted. Biodiversity suffers because vegetation and habitats are destroyed, leading to soil erosion, land- slides and decreased water quality.

It is time to take the much-needed steps to address the issue. There should be effective fire prevention and management strategies ion place. Awareness campaigns must be conducted to educate communities about the risks and consequences of forest fires. Support and resources must be offered to the affected families. And, finally, sustainable wildlife and forest management plans must be put into practice to protect natural resources.

More importantly, there should be severe punishment for those who are responsible for starting these fires. They must face criminal charges and hefty fines for their negligence or incompetence.

We must act now to mitigate the effects of forest fires in AJK and all other affected areas in order to ensure the long-term preservation of our larger ecosystem.

Khateeb Khan
Kotli

Published in Dawn, June 6th, 2024