Extreme forest fire risk in Kashmir for next week: JKDMA

Shabir Ibn Yusuf

Srinagar, May 23

As temperatures soar across Kashmir, authorities are on a high alert for the heightened risk of forest fires even as the Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) has issued a warning, indicating an extreme forest fire risk over the next seven days.

The people have been urged to report any incident promptly by dialling 112 for immediate response and assistance.

The backdrop of this warning is the ongoing heat wave gripping Kashmir, with temperatures rising steadily.

The combination of high temperatures, low humidity, and dry conditions has significantly increased the risk of wildfires in forested areas.

The JKDMA’s advisory underscores the importance of vigilance and early reporting to prevent the spread of fires, which can cause extensive damage to the environment, wildlife, and property.

Authorities are also coordinating with the Forest Department and emergency services to ensure a prompt response to any reported incidents.

The people have been urged to cooperate with authorities and report any signs of fire or smoke immediately.

The JKDMA’s proactive measures and public awareness campaigns are crucial in mitigating the risk of forest fires during this period of heightened danger.

People have been reminded to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent and combat wildfires, safeguarding lives and the environment.

Kashmir is facing a severe environmental crisis as forest fires have raged across several areas in the past, threatening the region’s lush green cover.

The fires, fueled by dry weather and high temperatures, have already destroyed acres of forest land, raising concerns about the impact on biodiversity and air quality.

Authorities are scrambling to contain the blaze, deploying firefighting teams and aerial resources to douse the flames.

However, the rugged terrain and difficult access to some affected areas have posed challenges to the firefighting efforts.

The fires have been particularly devastating in the forests of Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora districts, where dense vegetation has become a tinderbox due to the prolonged dry spell.

Wildlife habitats are also under threat, with reports of animals fleeing the flames.

The Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department, along with the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and local volunteers, are working tirelessly to bring the fires under control.

Helicopters are being used to waterbomb the affected areas, while ground teams are creating firebreaks to prevent the spread of the inferno.

People have been urged to avoid activities that could trigger fires, such as lighting campfires or burning waste.