4 December, 2024; A forest fire broke out in Compartment 65 of the Sindh Range, located in Block Gund, in Ganderbal district of Jammu & Kashmir. The fire, which posed a significant threat to the forest ecosystem and surrounding areas, prompted immediate action from local authorities and the Forest Protection Force (FPF).
The blaze reportedly started in the early hours and quickly spread across a large portion of the forest. Upon receiving reports of the fire, forest officials and the FPF teams were swiftly mobilized to contain the spread. The area where the fire broke out is known for its rich biodiversity, making it critical for the authorities to act quickly to prevent significant environmental damage.
The FPF, alongside forest department staff, used firefighting equipment, water tankers, and manual efforts to control the fire. Due to the rugged terrain, access to some parts of the affected area was challenging, but the teams managed to prevent the fire from spreading further. Efforts to fully extinguish the fire are ongoing, with officials working round the clock to ensure that no hotspots remain.
Local authorities have assured that they are taking all necessary steps to protect the forest and its wildlife, while also ensuring the safety of nearby communities. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, with suspicions of human activity or dry weather conditions contributing to its ignition.
Forest fires are a recurring issue in Jammu & Kashmir, especially during the dry months, and the authorities have been working to strengthen their preparedness and response measures. The ongoing situation in Ganderbal highlights the urgency of continued vigilance and proactive management of forest resources.
Officials have urged the public to remain cautious, avoid starting fires in forested areas, and report any suspicious activities that could lead to forest fires. The forest department has also been emphasizing the importance of community awareness and involvement in preventing such disasters in the future.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of forest conservation and the need for quick, coordinated efforts in the face of environmental threats.
