After the CM conducted an aerial-survey of the forest fire afflicted areas in Malakand and Hazara, he asked that the probe into the matter be expedited so that those involved in the criminal act of arson could be brought to justice.
Mahmood Khan said that forests are our national asset and those who caused harm and damage to the precious forests won’t be forgiven.
He said that the measures taken by the provincial government to reduce the effects of environmental pollution and climate change have been globally appreciated, and that he would work with the local government to ensure protection of forests.
"No compromise will be made on forest protection," said the chief minister.
The Chief Minister of KP also paid tribute to the departments and individuals who rendered services in the rescue operation, saying, "The martyred and wounded personnel sacrificed their lives for the nation, which will always be remembered."
Previously, while addressing a meeting of officials in Swat, chief secretary Dr Shahzad Khan Bangash had said that the matter of consecutive forest fires spanning days and in some cases weeks, was of great concern. He said the case would be carefully analysed and strategies would be formulated to prevent such incidents in future.
Meanwhile, the Swat police arrested two more persons on Wednesday, for their alleged role in setting fire to the forest in Marghuzar hills. The alleged arsonists were identified as Kameen and Amir Rasheed.
Malakand division commissioner said 42 FIRs had been filed, with 22 filed in Swat alone, against those allegedly involved in starting forest fires.