Srinagar, Jan 23: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a high-alert warning for forest fires in Jammu and Kashmir over the next seven days, valid until 11 a.m. on January 30. The warning comes as the region faces an 81% rainfall deficit, receiving only 11.4 mm of rain between January 1 and 22, compared to the normal 60.5 mm.
Jammu and Kashmir, with 20,230 square kilometres of forest cover—10% of its geographical area—face a significant risk, particularly in the Jammu region. Excluding Ladakh, the forest cover rises to 47%, with Kashmir’s temperate evergreen forests of Deodar, Kail, and Fir being typically resilient but now vulnerable due to the prolonged dry spell.
The NDMA advised residents to remain vigilant and dial 112 in case of emergencies. [KNT]
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