Mysterious forest fire in Zabarwan hills threatens homes, raises alarm over Kashmir’s vanishing forests

Srinagar: A raging forest fire broke out yet again in the Zabarwan Hills of Srinagar, Kashmir, on Friday evening, sending plumes of smoke into the sky and threatening nearby homes. The blaze, which erupted in the dense forest range, has sparked panic among residents in Ishber, Harwan, Shalimar areas as flames edge closer to residential areas. Emergency response teams, including the Fire and Emergency Services, Forest Department, and local volunteers, have been deployed to contain the fire, but the situation remains precarious as night falls.

This latest incident is part of a troubling wave of forest fires that have swept across Kashmir in recent months, leaving vast swathes of pristine forestland reduced to ash. From the Zabarwan Hills to regions like Bijbehara, Kokernag, Tral, and Pahalgam, these fires—often shrouded in mystery—have raised serious concerns about the region’s ecological future. While the exact cause of the Zabarwan fire remains under investigation, officials have not ruled out human negligence or natural factors exacerbated by prolonged dry spells.

The frequency and intensity of these incidents have alarmed environmentalists and residents alike.

Over the past couple of months, Kashmir has witnessed an unprecedented spate of forest fires, with reports indicating significant losses to its rich biodiversity. The Zabarwan range, a vital green lung overlooking Srinagar, is home to diverse flora and fauna, and its destruction could have far-reaching consequences for the region’s ecosystem and air quality.

Local residents who contacted Ziraat Times expressed frustration and fear as the fires continue to threaten their lives and homes.

“We’ve seen fires before, but never like this. It’s as if the forests are vanishing before our eyes,” said a resident of the Nishat area near Zabarwan Hills. “The government needs to act before it’s too late.”

The recurring nature of these incidents points to a deeper crisis. Experts suggest that climate change, coupled with inadequate forest management, may be fueling the surge in wildfires. Dry weather conditions, unchecked human activity, and a lack of modern firefighting infrastructure have only worsened the situation. In some cases, preliminary investigations have hinted at negligence, such as bonfires left unattended, as a possible trigger—though the “mysterious” origins of many fires remain unresolved.

This alarming trend demands urgent attention and proactive measures from authorities. The Kashmir Valley, often celebrated for its natural beauty, cannot afford to lose its forests to preventable disasters.

Environmentalists are calling for a multi-pronged approach: enhanced monitoring of vulnerable forest areas, stricter regulations on human activity near woodlands, and investment in advanced firefighting technology. Community awareness campaigns and the creation of firebreaks—cleared zones to slow the spread of flames—could also play a critical role in mitigating risks.

The government must act swiftly to investigate the root causes of these fires and implement a robust strategy to protect Kashmir’s forests. The loss of these ecological treasures not only threatens the region’s biodiversity but also undermines its identity as a paradise on Earth. As the Zabarwan Hills burn tonight, the clock is ticking—Kashmir’s forests need saving, and the time for action is now.