Fires endanger green zone of Srinagar’s Shankaracharya Hills

RK News
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27 Nov 2025

Arif Khan

Srinagar, Nov 26: Shankaracharya Hills, widely regarded as the green lungs of Srinagar, are facing escalating ecological danger as recurring fires continue to scar one of the city’s crucial natural assets.

Beyond their scenic charm, these hills act as a vital Carbon Sustainability Tank (CST), absorbing a major share of Srinagar’s pollution, dust and vehicular emissions.

Experts caution that the ongoing degradation of this protective green cover could disrupt the region’s environmental balance and further weaken its already fragile air quality.

Speaking to Rising Kashmir, Waqas Wadoo, Range Officer, S. Park Range, Urban Forestry Division Srinagar, said the Shankaracharya Hill is enduring “intense ecological stress” as seasonal fires and mounting human pressure threaten its delicate Himalayan ecosystem.

Experts note that such fires destroy shrubs, grasses and slow-regenerating plant species while displacing wildlife and damaging soil health by volatilising 10–15 per cent of organic matter.

They said a moderate fire stretching across 50–100 hectares can release nearly 500–1,000 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent — a severe blow to the hill’s natural carbon sink function at a time when Srinagar is struggling with rising pollution and climate stress.

Notably, the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department has intensified conservation efforts in the Shankaracharya Reserved Forest. This includes mega plantation drives led by NGOs and community groups, active forest management to revive the grove’s 125 plant species, and biodiversity-centred regeneration programs.

Fire prevention measures have been strengthened through rapid-response teams of frontline forest staff, FPF personnel and CRPF and SSG units. Strategic fire lines and controlled burning of dry biomass are being employed to reduce fuel load and prevent the spread of future fires.

Authorities are also pushing for stronger community participation through awareness drives targeting locals and pilgrims, urging them to follow fire-safe practices on the hill.

Durable, designated footpaths are being developed to reduce soil erosion caused by unregulated shortcuts, helping balance ecological protection with heavy footfall associated with religious tourism.

Deputy Director, Fire and Emergency Services, Dr Mir Aqib Hussain, said the prolonged dry spell has left leaves, trees and shrubs “severely moisture-starved”, making forested areas susceptible to fires.

“The recent blaze at Shankaracharya Hills is a stark reminder of the urgent need for strong fire-prevention measures, especially in hilly terrains where steep gradients and limited water sources make firefighting very challenging,” he said.

“We urge people to remain highly cautious during trekking or camping, avoid lighting fires in forested areas, and never leave any flame unattended. In the event of any fire-related emergency, citizens must immediately call the toll-free number,” he said.