Udhampur battles rising forest fires amid severe heatwave in Jammu and Kashmir
Udhampur district in Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a surge in forest fire incidents as an intense heatwave and prolonged dry weather continue to create hazardous conditions across the region.
Forest department officials said multiple fire outbreaks have been reported in recent days, prompting firefighting teams to launch extensive operations to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby villages and ecologically sensitive areas. Authorities have appealed to residents to avoid activities that could trigger fires near forested zones.
According to officials, soaring temperatures, dry vegetation, and strong winds have significantly increased the risk of wildfires. Several forest compartments in the Ramnagar division and surrounding areas have been affected, with firefighting personnel working round the clock to contain the blazes.
Recent reports indicate that dozens of forest fire incidents have been recorded in Udhampur during the ongoing heatwave, highlighting the growing environmental challenge facing the district.
Forest officials have warned that such fires not only destroy valuable forest cover but also threaten wildlife habitats and biodiversity. Prolonged dry conditions across northern India have contributed to a rise in forest fire incidents in several Himalayan regions, including Jammu and Kashmir.
Authorities have urged local communities to cooperate with firefighting teams and immediately report any signs of fire. Public awareness campaigns are also being conducted to prevent accidental ignition caused by discarded cigarette butts, open flames, and other human activities.
Officials said efforts are underway to bring the affected areas under control, while monitoring continues in vulnerable forest zones as the heatwave persists.
