A significant forest fire has erupted near NH-144A in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, prompting a rapid response from firefighting authorities. The blaze, which ignited in the Bhaga village area, has rapidly spread across hundreds of hectares of forest land, posing a threat to nearby villages and critical infrastructure, including the national highway.

The fire reportedly started on Friday, June 13, 2025, and quickly intensified due to dry weather conditions and strong winds prevalent in the region. The Forest Department and Fire and Emergency Services have deployed firefighting teams to combat the escalating situation. Efforts are underway to contain the flames and prevent further spread, but officials have confirmed that the fire is not yet fully under control.

DFO Reasi Sunil Singh stated that his team reached the spot immediately after the fire broke out at 4 PM and initiated efforts to extinguish it. However, the fire's intensity and the challenging terrain have made containment difficult.

Local residents are also expressing concern as the fire edges closer to residential areas. Mohammad Hamid, a local, reported being involved in efforts to control the blaze since 2 PM, utilizing hybrid vehicles to try and divert the flames. He highlighted the danger to homes in the vicinity, emphasizing that the fire remains out of control.

The incident in Reasi follows another fire outbreak in the Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir earlier in the day. Fire tenders are currently working to extinguish the fire that broke out in Gusu village, Pulwama.

Authorities are continuing their efforts to fully contain the Reasi forest fire, with further details awaited as the situation unfolds. The focus remains on protecting communities and critical infrastructure while battling the blaze.