Kamalia forest fire burns trees over 200 acres

TOBA TEK SINGH: Hundreds of trees were destroyed on Saturday after a fire broke out in the Kamalia forest, which spans more than 14,000 acres.

Firefighters said the blaze started for unknown reasons near Chak 741/GB and Chak 728/GB and spread across more than 200 acres. They said strong winds helped the fire move through a large area.

According to firefighters, the blaze had not been brought under control by the time the report was filed despite continued efforts. A Rescue 1122 official said firefighting teams from the municipal committees of Kamalia and Toba Tek Singh had reached the area, while local volunteers were also taking part in the operation.

Deputy Commissioner Umar Abbas Mela has ordered an inquiry to determine the cause of the fire. The forest department will also examine the incident and assess the loss of trees. There were also reports that wild animals had died in the fire.