Kashmir witnesses surge in forest fires amid dry spell

Baramulla, Jan 18: Following the unprecedented dry weather conditions across Jammu and Kashmir, forest fires have surged causing damage to acres of green forests in the Himalayan region.
Forest Department data reveals that the number of forest fires has increased due to dry spells resulting in damage to forests across the Valley.
In the month of December 2023, 15 incidents of forest fire were recorded in South circle followed by 1 incident in north circle and 08 in Srinagar Circle.
Experts attribute the rise in incidents to the absence of rain or snow, leading to the parching of forests.
Chief Conservator of Forests North Circle, Irfan Rasool told Rising Kashmir that the number of fire incidents has increased as compared to last winters.
“Our forests didn’t receive a single drop of rain or snow which leads to the drying of forests,” he said.
Rasool said that they received a number of complaints and their teams reached the spot and averted a major tragedy.
He said the department is urging people to refrain from engaging in campfires and coal-making processes in proximity to forests.
Deputy Director F&ES Baramulla, Mohammad Arif Mir said they have received more cases of forest fire as compared to previous winter seasons due to dry weather conditions.
“Forests are completely dry and a small spark could lead to a big incident,” he said.
According to data shared by F&ES Department, Baramulla recorded 11 incidents of forest fire followed by Kupwara ( 4 incidents) while district Bandipora also recorded 4 incidents .
“Our firefighters and vehicles are ready 24/7 to tackle any situation, if anyone sees any kind of fire incident they should contact F&ES ASAP,” reveals data.
Earlier, authorities imposed a ban on people entering forests and wildlife-protected areas in Kashmir during the dry spell to prevent potential significant incidents.