Wildlife Department Imposes Entry Ban in Kashmir Forests Amidst Rising Forest Fire Risks

SRINAGAR: The Wildlife Department in Kashmir has enforced a ban on unauthorized entry into forests and Wildlife Protected Areas, citing concerns over an extended dry spell leading to an increased risk of forest fires.

The department’s notice urges the public to refrain from unauthorized entry and activities in the forests, specifically in Wildlife Protected Areas under its jurisdiction. The measure comes in response to reported incidents of forest fires exacerbated by the prolonged dry spell in the Valley.

“Due to the long prevailing dry spell in the Valley, there have been incidents of forest fires, and there are strong apprehensions of further outbreaks. Nobody should make unauthorized entry for any kind of activities in the forests, particularly Wildlife Protected Areas, without obtaining prior permission,” the notice emphasizes.

The ban is specifically imposed on Brane, Nishat Conservation Reserve, Dachigam National Park, Dara Conservation Reserve, Khrew/Khanmoh Conservation Reserve, Wangath Conservation Reserve, and Thajwas Wildlife Sanctuary.

The notice warns that individuals found inside these restricted areas will face strict consequences under the provisions of the Wildlife Protection Act. Authorities aim to mitigate the risk of forest fires and protect the delicate ecosystems within these Wildlife Protected Areas during the ongoing dry spell.