SRINAGAR: Kashmir recorded 310 forest fire incidents in 2025, affecting more than 880 hectares of forest land across various divisions, according to official data. Officials said the figures mark a decline compared to the previous year.
The data shows that a total of 880.77 hectares of forest area was damaged by fires during the year.
Sindh Forest Division reported the highest number of incidents at 67, affecting 111.06 hectares, followed by Kamraj Forest Division with 52 incidents that impacted 67.90 hectares.
Anantnag Forest Division recorded 37 fire incidents, damaging 60.25 hectares, while Bandipora reported 29 incidents affecting 60.35 hectares.
Lidder Forest Division witnessed 25 incidents, though a comparatively larger area of 110.95 hectares was affected.
Kulgam Forest Division reported 22 incidents but recorded the highest loss of forest area in the valley, with 307.85 hectares damaged.
Tangmarg and Kehmil Forest Divisions reported 18 incidents each, affecting 36.05 hectares and 43.55 hectares respectively. JV Forest Division recorded 16 incidents, impacting 41.21 hectares.
Awantipora Forest Division witnessed nine incidents, with 30.70 hectares affected.
Shopian and Langate Forest Divisions reported five incidents each, damaging 1.70 hectares and 4.02 hectares respectively. Pir Panjal Forest Division also recorded five incidents, affecting 3.15 hectares.
The Urban Forest Division reported the lowest figures, with two incidents affecting 2.03 hectares of forest land.
Environmental experts said the data reflects continued pressure on forest resources and highlights the need for improved prevention, monitoring and rapid response measures to minimise fire-related damage in the coming years. Officials added that the division-wise data indicates certain areas remain more vulnerable to forest fires and require focused intervention. (KNS)
