Baghdad: Minister of Environment Hªlu Al-Askari announced the formation of a specialized field team to address the recent fires in the orchards of Dora district in Baghdad. The ministry is committed to taking legal and technical measures, in collaboration with relevant authorities, to rehabilitate the impacted areas.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Askari stated that the ministry is closely monitoring the frequent fires occurring in Dora’s orchards and surrounding farms, which pose a threat to both environmental and social security. The ministry plans to work alongside technical, administrative, security, and municipal bodies to mitigate these incidents and address their impacts.

The newly formed field team will be led by the Director General of the Central Region Department for Environmental Protection and Improvement. The team will include the Deputy Director General of the Environmental Awareness and Media Department, the Director of Baghdad’s Environment, the Director of the Environmental Police, and representatives from other relevant entities. Their mission is to investigate the causes of the fires, assess the environmental damage, and compile a comprehensive report.

The Minister highlighted the critical role that orchards and green belts play as the vital lungs of the capital. He underscored the necessity of preserving these areas to combat climate change and reduce pollution. Furthermore, the ministry will maintain its collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Baghdad Municipality, and Baghdad Governorate to restore affected areas and safeguard green spaces.