Forests on fire in Kashmir

Srinagar, Apr 16 (UNI) A bush-fire, that had erupted in the Zabarwan forest belt here yesterday, has been brought under control, officials said today.

The fire was controlled last night only, they added.

The bush-fire had erupted outside the Dachigam National Park area and near the campus of the Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) at Shalimar yesterday afternoon.

The fire had threatened wildlife and also destroyed vegetation.

Meanwhile, fire also broke out in the forest area of Halmatpora Chak, Googal Lolab and Kandi in Kupwara district in north Kashmir.

Massive efforts have been launched by the Forest Department with the help of fire service personnel and police to control the blaze.

A bush-fire had also erupted in Dachigam National Park, which is home to many rare and endangered species, including the Hangul or Kashmir Stag, some days ago, and was brought under control after several hours of fire-fighting operation.

UNI