Jabal Akhdar – A wildfire that broke out on Wednesday in Jabal Akhdar and later brought under control after massive effort from the Royal Oman Police’s (ROP’s) aviation units conducting over ten sorties to transport firefighting teams and equipment to Jabal Akhdar, has reignited public concern over the growing frequency of wildfires in ecologically sensitive areas.

Environment Authority (EA) confirmed receiving a report on April 9 about a tree being on fire in Dakhliyah governorate. In coordination with the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority (CDAA), swift action was taken to extinguish the blaze.

“We received the call around 2.00pm on Wednesday,” said Ahmed al Omairi, Director of the Environment Department in Dakhliyah. “We immediately coordinated with the ROP and the CDAA, and the response was prompt and effective.”

Initial assessments suggest that human activity – possibly by visitors or adventure tourists – or natural factors such as dry vegetation may have triggered the fire. Authorities are currently assessing the damage and preparing to rehabilitate the affected area by replanting similar native species.

“These oil trees are rare and highly flammable, and they grow in rugged mountainous areas that are difficult to access,” Omairi explained. “However, thanks to the cooperation of the local residents and the various government agencies, we were able to contain the fire despite the challenges.”

On Thursday, the ROP confirmed that its aviation unit conducted over ten sorties to transport firefighting teams and equipment to Jabal Akhdar. The operations were carried out in collaboration with the CDAA, the Royal Air Force of Oman, and the Royal Army of Oman.

This incident marks the latest in a series of similar fires, sparking widespread frustration on social media. Many citizens have called for stricter regulations and innovative solutions to better protect Oman’s natural environment.

“The frequency of such fires highlights the urgent need to adopt drone technology for firefighting operations in remote regions,” said Abu Muhammad, a concerned citizen. “Drones are more practical and cost-effective in rugged areas.”

“With the arrival of summer, these incidents are becoming all too common,” posted Ali al Balushi on X. “We need stronger laws to prevent people from setting fires near trees. Otherwise, Oman’s natural heritage will remain at risk.”

Others pointed to unregulated camping as a growing threat. “Poorly organised camping activities are contributing to these fires,” said Saeed al Nabhani on X. “Camping permits should come with strict environmental guidelines.”

Badr al Nabhani, another X user, added, “The EA must enhance monitoring and expand awareness campaigns. Visitors need to understand the importance of preserving these rare trees and avoiding open flames in sensitive areas.”

In an official statement issued on Thursday, the EA expressed gratitude to the CDAA, ROP, the Office of the Governor of Dakhliyah, and the citizens and volunteers who contributed to the response. ‘Their collective efforts were key in limiting the spread of the fire and minimizing environmental damage,’ it stated.

‘The authority highlights the importance of this institutional and community collaboration in responding to environmental incidents. It serves as a model for effective crisis management,’ the statement said. The EA reaffirmed its commitment to environmental protection, sustainable resource management, and enhanced preparedness for future emergencies.