Massive fire spreads in Kotli, Nagoon forests of Rajouri

Forest fire in Rajouri area.
Forest fire in Rajouri area.

Excelsior Correspondent

RAJOURI, June 19: A massive fire has erupted in the forests of Kotli and Nagoon in Rajouri district, marking a severe start to the summer season.
The blaze, which broke out early this morning, has posed significant challenges to firefighting efforts due to the intense heat and remote location of the affected area.
The Forest Protection Force (FPF), led by Assistant Director Masood Ahmed, along with personnel of Forest Department, Social Forestry and also Fire and Emergency Services, led by Station Incharge Maqbool Hussain, swiftly mobilized to the site. Despite their concerted efforts and working tirelessly throughout the day, the team faced immense difficulties in bringing the fire under control.
The blaze has caused extensive damage, to the forest wealth and wild life . It also impacts the climate due to which temperature is rising day by day as Carbon Dioxide and fog is increasing day by day.
The Assistant Director of FPF, Masood Ahmed, expressed grave concern over the situation, noting that such fires not only destroy valuable forest resources but also endanger wildlife. “In this scorching heat, wild animals and birds are suffering immensely,” he stated.
Ahmed further highlighted that some fires are intentionally set for personal gain, exacerbating the situation. He urged the public to refrain from such illegal and harmful activities. “Setting fires in forests is a grave sin. We appeal everyone to help in preventing and extinguishing fires to protect our precious green gold,” he added.
The department is committed to battling these fires round the clock, but public cooperation is crucial. If a fire breaks out naturally, immediate assistance in extinguishing it can help mitigate the damage and protect both the environment and wildlife.