A massive fire erupted in Qardagh, near Sulaymaniyah, and destroyed wide stretches of natural land. Officials from the Forest and Environment Police Directorate confirmed the destruction of orchards, forests, and shrubs. They estimated that the fire scorched around 50 dunams of vegetation.
Authorities immediately launched an investigation to identify the cause of the blaze. Teams continue to examine the affected area to gather information and assess the scale of the damage. However, the source of the fire remains unclear.
Fires often break out in Sulaymaniyah, especially during dry weather and the summer season. These incidents usually cause major environmental losses and reduce green areas. Local residents have voiced growing concern about the steady decline of vegetation and forest land in the region.
Environmental groups argue that shrinking green spaces threaten biodiversity and increase risks of soil erosion. They also highlight that repeated fires put additional pressure on agriculture and local livelihoods.
Officials stressed the need for preventive measures, including public awareness campaigns and stricter monitoring of vulnerable areas. They also called for stronger cooperation between authorities and local communities to protect forests and orchards.
The recent blaze highlights the urgent need for stronger environmental protection policies in Sulaymaniyah. Without serious steps, the Region risks losing more of its natural heritage.