: As soon as the dry mantra keeps catching Rajouri district, forest officials are on high warning, causing the increasing number of forest fire incidents.
According to the forests, West Circle Rajouri, IFFS Sat Paul, the region is currently feeling a fair level for the first fire, in which the chirp pine areas are the weakest due to dry conditions.
So far this season, 33 forest fire incidents have been reported, which affects a total of 32.85 hectares of forest land. Two new divisions have recently added new cases to this tally. Along with the Forest Department, Forest Protection Force (FPF) and other related departments, the situation is working in a clock time to bring under control.
He said, “This is an annual challenge, but with collective efforts, including active public cooperation, we are managing the damage,” the Conservator said. “Most of the fire mentioned so far are ground fire, not the crown fire, which means the primary damage is limited to dry pine needles and fallen branches. However, wildlife is often affected – nesting hunting plains are disturbed, and young animals cannot survive.”
Despite the damage to the forest floor and temporary effects on the green cover, the authorities emphasized that there has been no significant damage to human life or property so far. The major concern of the department protects the plantation areas and residential areas near the forest.
Particularly affected areas such as Novashera and Hazuri are looking at the risk of intense heat and fire, leading to heavy pressure on the fire teams. Currently, 68 personnel are actively deployed in affected areas, supported by local volunteers and regular fire watches.
The Conservator said, “We appeal to the public to be cautious. There is a significant increase in risk in dry weather. Timely reporting by citizens has played an important role in setting fire quickly.” He urged other government departments to expand full cooperation under the disaster response structure.
Forest Guard Rajesh Khajuria, forest guard of Calcas Forest, spoke about the immense challenges on the afternoon of May 19 to control a fierce fire. Khajuria along with his team worked tirelessly to extinguish the fire, which started around 1 pm and ruled that night later.
He shared that despite suffering from health issues after an accident in 2010, who had left him with serious injuries, he continued to fight with the flames with determination. Khajuria said, “Even though my health status was not ideal, I tried to extinguish the fire,” Khajuria said, reflecting my dedication to work in hand.
It was particularly difficult to control the fire due to the inaccessibility of the location. Khajuria said, “This area is far from the road, making it difficult to reach fire services. The heat was unbearable, and the fire spread rapidly.” The fire caused significant damage to the forest, including the destruction of old trees and vegetation.
Despite the difficult situations, Khajuria praised the villagers who helped their team fight the fire.
He said, “Some people in the village joined the attempt, and together, we managed to control the flames. But still, our team has worked hard to stop it from rule,” he said.
Khajuria also dismissed the rumors that the fire was deliberately designed to clean the land, such ideas were called “stupids”. Emphasizing the importance of protecting the forest and its wildlife, he said, “This fire has damaged so many animals and insects, and Allah will never forgive those who cause such destruction.” (AI)
