Fire rages in Nishat upper reaches

Srinagar, Jan 14: Dry bushes caught fire in the upper reaches of the Nishat area on Wednesday evening, causing panic among people living in the catchment areas.

Fire streaks could be seen raging from the Zabarwan mountain overlooking the Brein-Nishat stretch. Locals have expressed concern over frequent fire incidents in the Zabarwan belt.

“Authorities must devise a mechanism to douse forest fires in the upper reaches. We fear that the fire might spread fast due to dry grass amid a prolonged dry spell,” a resident said.

To mention, several fire incidents have been reported in dry bushes in the Zabarwan mountains since last week. Locals said if preventive measures are not taken, the Zabarwan forest in at risk. Officials maintain that due to hilly terrain, it is difficult to reach fire spots. However, they are monitoring the situation.