J-K: Massive fire breaks out in Katehda forest area of Rajouri district
Rajouri, June 15
A massive fire broke out in the Katehda forest area of the Lamberi Forest Range within the Nowshera division of the Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir.
Forest Department officials and personnel of the Forest Protection Force (FPF) said that the locals helped to control the blaze and prevent it from spreading to adjoining forest compartments.
Forest Conservator, West Circle, Rajouri, Sat Pal, requested the people to cooperate with the Forest Department as the forest fire incidents have been increasing.
"I want to appeal to all residents of the Rajouri district, including our employees, security personnel, and government staff, to assist the department and take personal initiative. Whenever a forest fire occurs, please try to extinguish it immediately. The initial few minutes are the most critical in such situations. Often, due to the remote and hilly terrain, it takes time for reinforcements and firefighting teams to reach the site," he said.
The incident comes amid an ongoing heatwave and prolonged dry spell that have led to a sharp increase in forest fire incidents across Rajouri district. The difficult terrain and dense forest cover are posing challenges to firefighting teams engaged in the operation.
Forest Department teams, assisted by local residents and volunteers, are making continuous efforts to contain the fire and minimise damage to forest resources and wildlife.
Authorities have appealed to the public to remain vigilant and avoid any activities that could trigger forest fires, as dry vegetation and high temperatures continue to increase the risk.
The situation is being closely monitored, and firefighting operations are underway to bring the blaze under control.
Earlier this month, a forest fire that broke out in the hills near Katra was brought under control after intensive firefighting operations by multiple agencies.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The heatwave is making everything worse. 😞 Our forests are the lungs of Jammu and Kashmir. I hope the authorities are also looking into why these fires are increasing – is it just weather or something more? We need long-term solutions, not just appeals.
Sat Pal ji's appeal is practical – in remote terrain, every minute counts. The locals' quick action saved adjoining compartments. But we need a proper mechanism, not voluntary efforts alone. Police, army, and forest department should have joint drills for such emergencies.
First Katra, now Rajouri – these forest fires are becoming a pattern. The dry spell is alarming. Let's also remember the wildlife that suffers silently. 🙏 Hope the teams can contain this quickly. And please, if you're trekking or camping, be extra careful with any fire.
A respectful criticism: while the appeal is good, we need more than just requests. The forest department should have drone surveillance and early warning systems in these fire-prone zones. Also, why are we not creating fire lines in advance every year? Prevention is better than firefighting.
This is heartbreaking. Our forests are already under pressure from development and now fires. The locals are heroes, but we need systemic change. Maybe involve local youth as trained fire volunteers? Government should allocate more funds for forest protection in budget.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.