jkdma-warns-of-extreme-forest-fire-risk-in-kashmir

The Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKDMA) has issued a high-alert warning for forest fires across marked regions in North and Central Kashmir, citing an ‘extreme fire risk’ over the next three days, starting from April 1.

 

Authorities have urged residents to exercise caution and promptly report any fire incidents by dialling 112. The department has also advised those living near forested areas to take necessary precautions, including moving livestock and valuables to safer locations.

 

“Move animals and valuable goods to safer locations. After adventure activities, ensure that no bonfire or flame is left unattended,” reads the advisory issued by JKDMA.

 

It has further recommended keeping emergency contact numbers of district fire services and forest authorities readily available.

 

“Immediately inform authorities in case of an unattended or uncontrolled fire. Never leave a fire unattended in the vicinity of forested areas,” the advisory stated.

 

Providing survival tips, it added: “If no water is nearby, lie in a depression with little vegetation and cover yourself with wet clothes, blankets, or soil. Breathe through a moist cloth to avoid smoke inhalation.”

 

The fire alert comes against the backdrop of an alarming surge in forest fires in Jammu and Kashmir.

 

In a recent address to the assembly in March 2025, Forest Minister Javed Ahmad Rana revealed that the region recorded 1,243 forest fires last year—more than double the previous fiscal year’s count and nearly identical to figures reported in 2022-23. Of these, 307 major wildfires were reported in the Jammu region alone.

 

Data from the forest department indicate that the highest number of fires in the previous year occurred in June 2024 (130 incidents), followed by May (79), January (39), December (22), February 2024 (17), November (8), and February 2025 (6).

 

Between 2021 and 2023, Rajouri district in Jammu witnessed the highest annual tree loss due to forest fires, averaging 8 hectares per year, followed by Reasi (6 hectares), Kishtwar (5 hectares), Doda (5 hectares), and Budgam in Central Kashmir (4 hectares).

 

Overall, between 2001 and 2023, 23 per cent of Jammu and Kashmir’s forests have been lost to fire, highlighting the severity of the crisis and the urgent need for enhanced preventive measures.