Punjab Forest Department assessment finds limited impact from Kotli Sattian, Kahuta forest fires

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Jun, 2026) The Punjab Forest Department has released the results of a detailed assessment of recent forest fire incidents in Kotli Sattian and Kahuta using Sentinel-2 satellite imagery, which revealed limited impact of fire.

According to the department's spokesperson on Friday, the analysis covered both state forests and Guzara Forests (privately owned community forests). Initial satellite data indicated fire impacts across approximately 3,208 acres of state forests and 3,211 acres of Guzara Forest land.

However, a comprehensive assessment conducted by the Punjab Forest Department using advanced analytical techniques revealed that the total affected area was approximately 1,819.69 acres. The report shows that 993.98 acres of state forest land were impacted, including 505.64 acres classified as moderately affected, 485.

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29 acres as slightly affected, and only 3.06 acres as severely affected.

The spokesperson stated that satellite-based analysis indicates that the fires primarily damaged ground vegetation, including grass and shrubs, while the upper canopy of trees largely remained intact. No clear evidence of large-scale tree loss was observed.

The department further clarified that an earlier claim by SUPARCO suggesting that more than 7,413 acres had been burned was not supported by the findings of the Punjab Forest Department’s detailed assessment.

The department continues to monitor the affected areas through advanced satellite technology and drone surveillance. Efforts to protect and restore forest resources are being further strengthened.

Experts believe that the affected areas have strong potential for natural regeneration and recovery.