TATTA PANI (Kashmir English): A massive fire has broken out in the forests surrounding the popular tourist area of Tatta Pani in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK).
The blaze has spread to nearby areas including Thandalaan, Gwalkot, Ban Garan, and Kanwiyan.
The raging fire has led to severe destruction of precious forest timber and animals in the area. People are now fearing that the surrounding areas of houses and local communities will also be at risk should the fire spread further.
Authorities have yet to confirm the cause of the fire, while locals fear further destruction if urgent measures are not taken to control it.
In another incident in Mirpur, a powerful gas explosion occurred today, leaving six people seriously injured, three of whom are in critical condition.
The blast occurred in the kitchen of the Butt Karahi Hotel, reportedly due to a gas pipe leak which filled the kitchen with gas before triggering the explosion.
The injured were taken to DHQ Hospital Mirpur with urgent care. Witnesses claimed that the blast was so powerful that it shook the whole building.
Windows of the hotel made of glass broke and furniture was flung across the room as a result of the collision.
Rescue 1122 teams were fast on the spot. The preliminary reports showed that the gas leak caused the explosion.
Previously, the Forest Department arranged a special programme in the Samahni Sub-Division in a bid to protect the forests and control wildfires.
It was held in the Forest Rest House, Chowki and was well attended by the district council members, local government representatives, civil society members, media persons and forest officers.
The speakers at the event emphasized the adverse effects that forest fires have on the environment, animals and plants saying that crores worth of damage is usually caused.
They stress-tested the importance of raising mass awareness and civic engagement so that forest areas could be better safeguarded against such catastrophes.
