Forest fire rages along LoC in Rajouri, Poonch

Rajouri, Dec 8: Forest fires have erupted at several forward locations along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri and Poonch districts, causing extensive damage to forest areas and thick bushes over the past nearly 36 hours.

According to official sources, intense flames spread rapidly through forested stretches, triggering dense plumes of black smoke that engulfed large areas.

The smoke was so thick that it was visible from far-off locations, creating concern in adjoining villages.

Officials said the fire spread swiftly due to prevailing dry weather conditions and a highly inflammable “forest floor.”

“The prolonged dry spell has left the forest bed parched, with dry leaves and bushes acting as fuel, allowing the flames to move rapidly across slopes and forward areas despite control efforts,” officials said. They further said that the forest fire led to several landmine explosions along the LoC.

These explosions reportedly occurred due to a sudden rise in temperature caused by the advancing flames, adding to the risk and complexity of firefighting operations in the sensitive border belt.

Army troops deployed along the LoC immediately swung into action and worked tirelessly to contain the blaze.

Officials said that coordinated efforts by the troops helped in controlling the fire at multiple locations despite difficult terrain and operational constraints.

In the Rajouri Keri area, Fire and Emergency Services of the Jammu and Kashmir government were also pressed into service.

A fire tender from the Rajouri fire station was rushed to the area, where firefighters carried out operations in close coordination with Army personnel.

Authorities said, “While the fire has been brought under control at several points, it is still continuing in some locations.”

“Efforts are ongoing to completely douse the remaining flames and prevent further damage to forest resources along the LoC,” they added.