Bilal Habib
Pampore, Dec 18: A massive forest fire that broke out in the Batdalaw Khrew area of Pampore has been successfully controlled through the joint efforts of the Wildlife and Forest Departments.
The fire, which started on Monday evening, spread to the Tangwath beat in the Wildlife Range Khrew and the Forest Range Pampore, prompting a swift response from authorities.
Officials reported that employees from the joint Control Room, along with staff from the Forest and Wildlife Departments, immediately initiated fire-fighting operations. Despite facing challenges, including a lack of water, the team was able to contain the fire by using bare hands and sticks. The fire was fully controlled by Tuesday evening around 5 pm.
Range Officer of the Wildlife Department, Mohammad Ashraf Kobli, explained that although the fire had spread quickly, it was largely contained by Tuesday afternoon.
He said the team of 50 personnel, including casual laborers from the Wildlife Department, worked tirelessly to bring the fire under control. “The operation, which resumed early Tuesday morning, successfully limited the damage to grass, bushes, and decomposed wood, with no significant harm to the green trees”.
The Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Awantipora, Sajad Ahmad, explained that the dry soil and large amounts of combustible material in the area made the fire difficult to control. He advised the public to avoid carrying matches or lighters into the forests and to promptly extinguish cigarette butts to prevent such incidents.
The fire-fighting operation underscores the dedication of the local authorities in protecting the region’s environment and wildlife.
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