Kulgam, Oct 08: A severe forest fire broke out in the Damhal Hanjipora forest range of the Special Forest Division, Kulgam on Saturday evening, posing a significant threat to the area.
The Forest Department swiftly mobilised its forces to combat the blaze, and as per officials, the situation is now under control.
According to Syed Wasim, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Special Forest Division, Kulgam, the fire ignited in a steep forest area, specifically in compartment number N24 of the Damhal Hanjipora Forest range.
He said Quick Response Teams (QRTs) were promptly deployed to tackle the situation, with support from all Forest Ranges of Kulgam, as well as assistance from the Forest Protection Force (FPF) and local volunteers.
“The fire occurred in challenging terrain, making the situation quite critical. However, the coordinated efforts of the QRTs, FPF, and locals, played a crucial role in extinguishing the fire,” he said, adding that at present, the fire has been contained and preventive measures, including the creation of firebreaks, have been implemented to curb its spread.
The DFO further said that a mopping exercise is currently in progress to prevent any potential re-ignition of ground fires in the affected forest range.
The forest department, along with its allied forces, continues to monitor the area closely to ensure the situation remains under control, Wasim said. He advised the residents to follow safety guidelines issued by the Forest Department.
