SRINAGAR: The government should immediately direct the Forest, Ecology and Environment Department to conduct a survey and ensure compensation measures are taken in response to the increasing incidents of forest fires in Jammu and Kashmir, CPI(M) leader and MLA Kulgam, M Y Tarigami, said on Tuesday.
In a statement, Tarigami said he had submitted a calling attention notice in the Assembly to the Minister in charge of Forest, Ecology and Environment, in light of the rising number of forest fires in the region.
He said recent forest fires in JK have led to the loss of vital green cover, often referred to as “green gold”, and have contributed to climate change.
The MLA said he was informed that the forest fires are being closely monitored and managed by department staff to prevent further spread.
“During the months of February and March 2025 alone, 91 forest fire incidents were reported in J&K, affecting around 136 hectares of forest area. It is imperative that the department takes serious steps to compensate for the loss by planting more trees and conducting a thorough survey to assess the damage and prevent recurrence of such incidents,” Tarigami added.
He further said that while the department does engage in afforestation efforts, it must also remain vigilant about the increasing frequency of forest fires.
“Areas affected by these fires should be restored to their original state to prevent further degradation of the ecosystem and climate,” he said. (KNO)
