From the last three days fire has engulfed forests in different compartments in Kupwara district, with the forest department in deep slumber and the forests protection force (FPF) sitting unawares in their offices.
According to the correspondent, six forest compartments in Hachimarg (10), Hangikoot (46, 47, 48) and Rajwar (35, 36)- are burning from the last three days and the forest department officials are taking no action to douse and control the fire. The areas fall in the forests range of Kehmil and Langate area.
Locals said that the forest protection force personnel have failed to monitor their areas of duty and failed to take pre-emptive action in preventing the fire.
Confirming the fire has engulfed the forest range in Langate area, DFO Muhammad Ayoub claimed that the fire has been controlled in his range.
DFO Kehmil, D P Singh was not available as his phone was switched off. (KNS)