SRINAGAR, JAN 06: Kashmir has seen a staggering 2,200 fire incidents from January to November this year, marking a concerning trend that has resulted in the damage of 1,462 structures and claimed 9 lives. Additionally, 36 forest fires have been reported during this period, posing a threat to the region’s natural environment.
As per the official data Srinagar district topped the list with the highest number of fire incidents, recording 472 cases. Among these, 284 structures, 23 shops, and 6 shopping complexes suffered damage. The district also witnessed the destruction of 23 vehicles and 38 electricity transformers.
Budgam district reported the highest number of forest fires, with 12 incidents during the same period. A total of 225 fire incidents in the district caused damage to 119 structures, 6 shops, and 10 shopping complexes. Additionally, 8 vehicles and 9 electricity transformers were affected.
In Anantnag, 249 fire incidents were reported, leading to damage in 139 structures, 27 shops, and 6 shopping complexes. Kupwara, on the other hand, witnessed 268 fire incidents, resulting in the damage of 227 structures, 18 shops, and 6 shopping complexes. Notably, the district reported 15 forest fires.
Pulwama reported 207 fire incidents, causing damage to 118 structures and 46 shops. Meanwhile, Shopian had the lowest number of fire incidents at 104, but still recorded damage to 81 structures, 25 shops, and 3 shopping complexes.
Ganderbal reported 128 fire incidents, affecting 80 structures, 5 shops, and 2 shopping complexes. Baramulla witnessed 341 fire incidents, causing damage to 207 structures, 50 shops, and 10 forest fires. In Kulgam, 108 fire incidents resulted in damage to 85 structures and 12 shops.
Finally, Bandipora reported a total of 155 fire incidents, causing damage to 122 structures, 26 shops, and one forest fire. The cumulative impact on vehicles and electricity transformers was also significant across the districts. The increasing frequency of fire incidents has raised concerns among authorities and the public alike, prompting a reevaluation of fire safety measures and prevention strategies in the region. Authorities are emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and preparedness to mitigate the impact of future incidents.
