More than 434 hectares of forest land have been scorched by wildfires across nine regions of Tajikistan this year.

More than 434 hectares of forest land have been scorched by wildfires across nine regions of Tajikistan this year, according to the Agency for Forestry.  Speaking at a news conference in Dushanbe on August 1, officials cited abnormal heat and negligence by visitors as the primary causes of the fires.

Bakhtiyor Obloyorzoda, head of the Agency’s Forestry Department, stated that the affected area is significantly larger than in previous years.  Of the total land damaged, 145.8 hectares lie outside the Agency’s official jurisdiction.

“All fire outbreaks have been brought under control, and agency specialists are currently assessing the total damage,” Obloyorzoda confirmed.

The wildfires mostly occurred in July and, according to official data, were extinguished within one to two days. However, social media users who posted photos and videos from affected areas claimed that some fires lasted over four days in certain regions.

Climate change and access challenges

Deputy Director of the Forestry Agency Davlatali Sharifzoda emphasized that climate change is contributing to the rising number of wildfires. He also pointed to limited access as a challenge in fighting fires.

“There are no roads to some areas, fire-fighting equipment can’t reach them, and our technical resources are underdeveloped,” he said.

Despite these constraints, fires have been successfully extinguished, thanks in part to the civic engagement of local residents, whom officials praised for their quick response and assistance.

Tajikistan’s fire-prone season runs annually from April 15 to November 15, during which the majority of wildfires are reported. The agency reminded all institutions operating on forest land to adhere to fire safety regulations outlined in the country’s Forestry Code.

Asia-Plus users have continued to share real-time images and videos from affected areas, particularly highlighting recent fires in Sughd province.

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