A couple died after being trapped in a wildfire while attempting to control flames near their home in Hasham Khel Dab village, Martung tehsil of Shangla district.
The victims, Hakim Zada and his wife Hajiroon, were trying to protect stored firewood when the fire, intensified by strong winds, overwhelmed them. Police confirmed both were burned to death at the scene.
Sub-divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Usman Munir confirmed the incident, stating that the couple burned to death during the rescue effort. Zahid Hussain, an official from the forest department, explained that the fire initially started when the couple set bushes near their house ablaze, but gusty winds caused it to spiral out of control.
Shangla Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Fawad confirmed compensation for the family. Forest officials stated the fire began when the couple burned bushes near their home, which spread uncontrollably due to winds.
Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa President and Federal Minister Engineer Amir Muqam expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He termed it a “heart-wrenching human tragedy,” praising the couple’s bravery and selflessness in trying to save the forest.
Muqam extended condolences to the bereaved family, prayed for the deceased’s forgiveness, and assured full support to the affected. He also directed local authorities to monitor rescue efforts closely.
Wildfires remain a recurring issue in Shangla, with over 50 incidents reported in 2024 and a deadly 2022 blaze claiming four lives in Chakesar.
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