Changa Manga Jungle Catches Fire: Wildlife and Environment at Risk

LAHORE – July 8, 2025:
A massive fire broke out in Pakistan’s famous Changa Manga forest, raising serious concerns about environmental damage and the safety of wildlife. The fire reportedly started on Monday evening and quickly spread across a large area of the forest, fueled by dry weather and strong winds.

Changa Manga is one of the largest man-made forests in the world and is located in the Kasur district of Punjab, about 70 kilometers from Lahore. Known for its biodiversity, greenery, and tourist attraction, the forest is home to a wide variety of birds, animals, and plants. The fire has not only threatened the wildlife but also caused significant damage to the natural beauty of the region.

Fire Spread Rapidly

According to local forest officials, the fire started in the southern section of the forest and spread quickly due to dry leaves and grass. Firefighters and rescue teams rushed to the site and have been trying to control the flames for several hours.

Eyewitnesses said that thick clouds of smoke covered the sky and the smell of burning wood was noticeable even from a distance. “We saw flames rising from the trees, and within minutes the fire was out of control,” said a local resident who lives near the forest.

Authorities Respond

The Forest Department and Rescue 1122 teams were immediately dispatched to the area. According to the Deputy Commissioner of Kasur, dozens of firefighters, forest guards, and volunteers are working together to control the fire. “We are using water bowsers and fire extinguishers, and we’re trying to stop the fire from reaching the deeper parts of the forest,” said one rescue official.

Helpline numbers have also been issued for the public to report any fire or smoke in the surrounding areas. The government has requested nearby residents to avoid visiting the forest until the fire is completely brought under control.

Cause of Fire Still Unknown

While the exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, authorities believe it may have been due to extreme heat or carelessness by visitors. Some reports suggest that a group of picnickers might have left behind burning coal or cigarette butts, which may have triggered the blaze.

Environmental activists, however, are demanding a full inquiry into the incident. “Changa Manga has faced similar fire incidents in the past as well. It is the responsibility of the authorities to ensure proper fire safety measures are in place, especially in the summer,” said an environmentalist from Lahore.

Impact on Wildlife and Nature

The blaze has disturbed the wildlife, creating chaos and fear among the forest animals. Many birds were seen flying away in search of safety. Deer, monkeys, and other species living in the area may have been affected by the fire, though the extent of damage to wildlife is not yet confirmed.

Experts say that even after the fire is extinguished, the environmental damage could take years to recover. Trees, plants, and natural habitats are essential for the ecosystem, and their loss will affect the balance of nature in the region.

Call for Prevention and Protection

The Changa Manga forest, planted during British rule, plays a key role in fighting climate change and air pollution in Punjab. It also attracts tourists, students, and researchers. This fire highlights the urgent need for better forest management, firewatch systems, and public awareness.

Officials are now planning to form an inquiry committee to investigate the matter and ensure such incidents do not occur in the future. Security patrols in the forest area are expected to be increased, especially during dry seasons.

Public Reaction

Many people expressed their sadness and anger over the fire on social media. Hashtags like #SaveChangaManga and #ForestFire began trending as citizens urged the government to take strong steps to protect Pakistan’s green treasures.

A citizen from Lahore shared on social media, ‘Changa Manga represents our natural heritage—we must protect it from carelessness and weak safety measures. Authorities must act!”

Conclusion

As of now, firefighting efforts continue, and officials remain hopeful that the fire will be fully controlled soon. However, the damage already done calls for serious reflection. Protecting forests like Changa Manga is not just about saving trees—it is about securing our environment, our wildlife, and our future.