Islamabad Temperature Soars to Record High
The heatwave has caused concerns about the impact of climate change on the city's environment and residents, with the Pakistan Meteorological Department predicting more frequent and severe heatwaves in the future. The city's authorities must take measures to mitigate the effects of climate change and protect the environment.
Islamabad recorded its hottest day on record, with a temperature of 45°C, just 1.6°C shy of the all-time high of 46.6°C set in 1994, prompting concerns about the impact of the heatwave on the city's residents and environment.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted rains in the next few days, which may bring relief from the heat. However, the heatwave has already caused a fire to break out on the Margalla Hills, prompting a firefighting operation involving over 50 personnel. The district administration has imposed restrictions on gatherings in sensitive forest areas, including a ban on barbecues and bonfires in green belts and the Margalla Hills National Park.
The fire on Margalla Hills was reportedly caused by negligence of locals or visitors, which spread rapidly due to the high temperature of 44 degrees Celsius. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) deployed 120 firefighters to combat the blaze, but heavy winds hindered the operation. The CDA has faced similar challenges in the past, requiring assistance from helicopters to control fires at difficult terrains.
The heatwave has highlighted the need for residents and visitors to take precautions to prevent fires and protect the environment. The predicted rains may bring relief from the heat, but it is essential for the city's authorities to take measures to prevent such incidents in the future and ensure the safety of the residents and the environment.