Boniyar: A fire broke out in the Dazna area of Lachipora Wildlife Sanctuary in Boniyar on Thursday, posing a serious threat to green trees and wildlife, including Hangul and Markhor species found in the region.
Local sources told GNS that the fire initially started on private land where some residents had set bushes and dry grass ablaze in their fields and grazing areas. The flames later spread into the forest zone, affecting parts of Dazna and Charukh within the Lachipora Wildlife Sanctuary.
A wildlife official told GNS that teams from the Wildlife Department, along with local police, rushed towards the site after receiving information. However, the teams could not immediately reach the exact spot due to falling stones from the hill slopes, which hampered access and posed a safety risk.
The official said the fire has been brought under control in some pockets, but remains active in certain areas. Firefighting operations were continuing till the filing of this report.
Authorities have urged residents to refrain from burning waste, bushes, or grass near forest areas to prevent the spread of fire into forest zones. (GNS)
