Muscat – Jabal Akhdar, one of Oman’s most popular tourist destinations, enthralls visitors with its exotic landscape and rare juniper trees. However, recurring fires – often ignited by careless campers – have devastated this fragile ecosystem. What measures can authorities adopt to safeguard Jabal Akhdar’s flora and prevent more fires? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said –

Hameed al Balushi, Private sector employee

Installing early fire detection systems like heat sensors and thermal cameras can greatly help. Authorities should also build watchtowers and improve road access for emergency vehicles to respond quickly. Educating the public, especially campers and tourists, about fire safety is crucial to preserving Jabal Akhdar’s unique ecosystem and trees.

Salma al Amri, Homemaker

Random fires often happen due to negligence. Authorities must limit access during dry seasons and strictly ban open flames. Awareness signage in Arabic and English can guide tourists. Conducting regular drills with local communities and fire teams will also improve preparedness and help contain fires before they spread too far.

Khalfan al Nabhani, Businessman

It’s time we treat Jabal Akhdar’s forests like a national treasure. A seasonal permit system for visitors, along with dedicated forest rangers, can control traffic and ensure rules are followed. We should also invest in satellite surveillance and use drones for monitoring.

Ahmed al Hinai, Tour guide

Fires destroy not just trees but entire habitats. The government should create buffer zones by clearing dry brush around vulnerable areas. Special campaigns in schools and social media about forest care can raise awareness.

Anil Thomas, Salesman

Authorities must instal fire alarms and water tanks at key locations to douse small fires instantly. Local volunteers and villagers can be trained as first responders. Also, restricting open camping can reduce accidental fire incidents.

Farzana Iqbal, Private sector employee

We need technology like drones for early fire detection, restricted access during fire-prone months and strict fines for careless behaviour (like random camping). Educational programmes about rare flora and fauna should be conducted for tourists to create a sense of responsibility at camping sites.