Kashmir’s green line of defence sounds alarm as forest fires spread

Srinagar, Apr 4: A meeting focussing on forest fire prevention and management was held under the chairmanship of Conservator of Forests, (CoF) Srinagar Circle, Tawheed Ahmad Deva at Sheikhbagh Forest Complex in Srinagar on Friday.

The meeting was attended by the Joint Director of Forest Protection Force, Kashmir, all Divisional Forest Officers of Srinagar Circle and all Deputy Directors of Forest Protection Force and Wildlife Wardens of Kashmir Region.

The primary agenda was to address the recent forest fires that have impacted various forest divisions within the Kashmir region.

The meeting conducted a thorough review of the current situation, analysed the causes of the fires, and strategised on enhanced prevention and mitigation measures.

“The protection of our forests is paramount,” the CoF Srinagar said.

He said that the department was committed to implementing proactive measures to safeguard these vital ecosystems and ensure the safety of our communities.

During the meeting, it was emphasised that all forest fire control rooms across the districts are operating round the clock.

The key strategies discussed and adopted in the meeting include intensifying efforts to educate the public on fire safety and the importance of preventing forest fires and enhancing surveillance and monitoring to detect and respond to potential fire hazards promptly.

Besides, fostering seamless collaboration between the Forest Department, Forest Protection Force, Wildlife Protection Department, and other relevant agencies was also stressed.

The meeting also emphasised strict action against anyone found responsible for causing a forest fire and shall be booked under relevant forest protection law.

The Forest Department reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the invaluable forest resources and called upon the public to cooperate and remain vigilant in preventing forest fires.