Srinagar, Jan 27, KDC: A massive fire broke out in the vegetation and grasslands of Hariparbat hills in summer capital Srinagar on Monday, prompting a swift response from fire and emergency services along with the local police.
Eyewitnesses told news agency Kashmir Dot Com that the fire, which started in the dense vegetation covering the historic hill, quickly spread due to dry conditions.
Authorities confirmed that fire-fighters were immediately dispatched to the site, and firefighting operations are currently underway. Local police have also joined efforts to contain the blaze, they said.
“There is no immediate threat to residential areas or historic sites near the hill,” an official said. “We are working tirelessly to douse the flames and prevent further spread.”
The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. However, officials suspect dry weather could be a contributing factor.
Earlier, the (NDMA) had issued a warning of a very high risk of forest fires in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Very High Forest Fire Risk is likely to occur over forest areas in J&K in the next seven days. In case of emergency, dial 112,” said NDMA.
The warning is valid until 11 am on January 30. (KDC)
