Srinagar, Oct 28: Amid ongoing dry weather, forest fire incidents have increased, with an average of two-three incidents being reported daily in Kashmir.
Kashmir has been experiencing dry weather for several weeks. The region’s forests, mostly in the dry temperate class, predominantly consist of conifers such as Deodar, Kail, and Fir. These forests are generally less vulnerable to fires due to their evergreen species and lush ground cover.
An official from the Fire and Safety Department said there has been a rise in forest fires over the past few weeks.
“In the last month, more than 70 forest fires, both minor and significant, have been reported across Kashmir, indicating an average of two-three fires per day,” the official said.
“Natural causes, like lightning, rarely start forest fires and are reported to account for less than five percent of all fires annually in the country. Most forest fires are man-made, often due to carelessness or intentional actions,” the official added.
Each year, over 300 forest fires are reported in the valley.
The Forest Department has recommended several measures to prevent human-caused forest fires in Jammu and Kashmir. “Improved connectivity through wireless sets or cell phones, mobility support with pickup vans, proper protective gear, first aid kits, and fire-control tools are essential for staff safety and effective firefighting,” the official said.
The official also said that artificial boundaries are marked around forest lands in some areas of the Union Territory.
Additionally, the increase in forest fires is attributed to a lack of proper demarcation of forest land in Jammu and Kashmir. “If forest boundaries were properly marked, fewer incidents would occur,” the official said.
The official added that thousands of kanals of forest land are still under encroachment, with the government yet to retrieve this land from encroachers.
Add a comment