60 hectares lost to forest fires in south Kashmir in one week, officials on alert

April 3, 2025 by News Desk

Suhail Dar

Forest fires in South Kashmir have destroyed approximately 60 hectares of land in the past week, officials said.

Authorities have deployed teams to contain the blazes and are urging the public to report any fire incidents promptly.

Dr. Arashdeep Singh, Chief Conservator of Forests (South), told The Kashmiriyat that the fires have been widespread and require urgent intervention. “We have recorded 20 fire incidents in Anantnag, Shopian, Kulgam and Pulwama over the last seven days, affecting around 60 hectares (1200 Kanal) of forest. Our teams are on the ground, working tirelessly to douse the flames and prevent further damage,” he said.

While the exact causes of the fires are still being investigated, officials suspect dry weather, rising temperatures, and human negligence may be contributing factors. A forest department official emphasized the importance of public cooperation, stating, “We request people to avoid activities that could trigger fires and inform authorities if they notice smoke or flames. Quick reporting can make a huge difference in controlling the spread.”

In recent years, Kashmir has witnessed an alarming rise in forest fires, threatening biodiversity and nearby human settlements. Environmental experts warn that if preventive measures are not strengthened, the consequences could be severe. “These fires not only destroy trees but also disrupt the entire ecosystem, affecting wildlife and increasing soil erosion,” said a local environmentalist.

As firefighting operations continue, authorities stress that protecting Kashmir’s forests requires collective responsibility. “Our forests are vital for the environment and livelihoods. We urge people to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities in forested areas,” an official added.

In the 2024-25 financial year, Jammu Kashmir reported 1,243 forest fire incidents—636 more than the 607 recorded in 2023-24.