Srinagar: A forest fire erupted in compartment 35 near the water supply scheme in Watlab, Sopore, in the contested region of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, prompting local residents to take immediate action.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, residents from the nearby areas of Kenusa and Rampora have come together to combat the fire and prevent it from spreading further. The cause of the blaze has yet to be determined, and officials are actively working to contain the situation.

There have been allegations suggesting potential involvement of the Indian army in forest fire incidents, allegedly as a tactic to drive out mujahideen. Additionally, many forest fires in the region are believed to be the result of deliberate acts. However, natural factors such as climate change, lightning, and volcanic eruptions also play a role in the occurrence of forest fires.