Gurez, Dec 1, KNT: The massive forest fire raging in the Bagtore area near the Line of Control in Gurez Valley has been largely contained, but not before inflicting severe damage on the region’s fragile ecosystem.
Officials said about 80 percent of the blaze has been brought under control after five days of continuous effort, though several scattered patches continue to burn across the slopes. Firefighting teams remain engaged in containing the remaining flames and preventing fresh flare-ups.
The fire initially broke out in Forest Compartment 32 earlier this week and rapidly spread into adjoining compartments, tearing through stretches of forest known for rich biodiversity and dense vegetation. A large number of trees, including valuable kail species, have been badly damaged, while the impact on wildlife and smaller flora is believed to be extensive.
Forest officials said the difficult terrain and the area’s proximity to the Line of Control have added serious operational challenges. Due to security sensitivities, firefighting teams suspend operations at night and resume work at first light.
There is no road connectivity to the affected compartments and the absence of access routes has ruled out the use of fire tenders. The operation has therefore relied entirely on manual firefighting using hand tools to cut fire lines and remove flammable brush.
Forest Officer Javid Iqbal said teams from the Forest Department, the Army, police and local volunteers have worked in coordination to stop the fire from spreading deeper into the forest belt. He said the combined effort has helped curb most active fire fronts.
He added that if weather conditions remain favourable, authorities expect the remaining fire to be subdued by the end of the day.
The extent of damage to forest land, plant life and wildlife will be assessed only after the fire is fully extinguished [KNT]
