Zaffer Iqbal
Uri, Jan 22 : Fire incidents have been reported on Thursday from multiple areas of Uri, causing concern among residents and prompting an immediate response from the authorities.
The affected areas, as per reports reaching GNS, include Kamalkote, Basgran, Dachi, Kaligi, Paranpillan, Kaller Garkote and Nambla. While no immediate casualties were reported, the situation remains tense as the fire continues to pose a threat to forest areas and nearby habitations.
According to local residents, the fire originated from dry grass and quickly spread due to strong winds, resulting in massive flames along several stretches, particularly near roadside areas. “In Nambla, locals reported that some residential houses are also at risk, raising fears of property damage,” they told GNS.
Locals alleged that the fire was deliberately triggered by miscreants, terming it a recurring problem linked to illegal pasture expansion. They said such acts endanger the forest ecosystem and put the safety of the general public at serious risk. Residents demanded strict action against those responsible and called for preventive measures to avoid future incidents.
When contacted, a Forest Department official told GNS that teams, along with police and forest protection staff, were immediately deployed to the affected locations to contain the fire. “Fire service units were also pressed into service to assist in the operation.” However, the official said that strong winds have made firefighting efforts challenging and have contributed to the rapid spread of flames.
Authorities said efforts were underway to bring the situation under control and assess the extent of damage, while locals continued to urge swift and decisive action to prevent further loss to forests and property. (GNS)
