ABBOTTABAD: The Forest Department and the Village Development Committee (VDC) of Phalkot held a joint meeting on September 19, 2026, to strengthen community participation in forest protection and improve preparedness for forest fires.
The meeting was attended by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Galyat Forest Division Abbottabad, the BTASP Monitoring Officer, the Community Development Officer (CDO) of Galyat Forest Division, VDC Phalkot members and community wardens recruited under the BTASP project.
During the meeting, VDC members were briefed on their roles and responsibilities and encouraged to take an active part in project activities. Participants also discussed practical measures to protect forests, with particular focus on forest fire prevention and management.
As part of the initiative, firefighting tool kits and essential equipment were distributed among community wardens and VDC members under BTASP. The equipment is intended to help them respond more effectively to forest fire risks and carry out their responsibilities in protecting local natural resources.
The meeting highlighted the importance of cooperation between forest officials and local communities in safeguarding forests. Strong community involvement and better preparedness can help reduce fire risks, protect biodiversity and preserve forest resources for future generations.
