Extent and causes of wildfire in Murree, Punjab, Pakistan (T-1273) (MFN 4250)

Abstract

Management of forest fire is a serious issue in many regions for its suppression and prevention. This study provides information about the extent and causes of forest fires in Murree Forest Division. Public attitude survey carried out in different areas of Murree using closed-ended questionnaire designed to assess the public attitude towards forest fire management and data was analyzed and presented in the form of graphs. The study area is mostly comprised of Pine forest having resinous material in it which can be easily affected by fires. The primary data was collected by survey form, observatory visits and interviews have been integrated with secondary data which has been collected by the Punjab Emergency Service (Rescue 1122) Murree, Forest Department and GIS mapping. The data of forest fire incidents was attributed on GIS maps to identify the vulnerable and fire prone areas and locations in study area. The most vulnerable forest area has been identified in Murree after the current study and analysis. The current study shows that forest fire is a serious issue which is very harmful to human but also for Fauna and Flora. The GIS based data always shows that most of the forest fires have been occurred near to human populations and the survey analysis also provide the same results. As the forest fires effect the local environment, it also has an impact on local community in the form of fire hazards (Smoke, heat, deforestation and land sliding). Community and public awareness and coordination among the line agencies with forest department has been identified which need improvement for better control and management of forest fires.