Srinagar, Dec 30 (KNO): Marking a modest 5.7% decline, North Kashmir tallied 1,142 fire calls in 2025 compared to 1,212 in 2024 that destroyed property worth crores, with Baramulla still topping at 533 cases amid winter surges.
Data obtained by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), states Baramulla district remained the hotspot with 533 cases—down from 548 last year, while Kupwara saw 380 incidents versus 407 previously, with Bandipora logged the lowest at 228 compared to 357 in 2024.
The 2025 tally reflects a 5.7% reduction overall, with false alarms staying minimal at 11 across districts (5 in Baramulla, 3 each in Kupwara and Bandipora).
Kupwara, as per the official data, reported the starkest drop but highest human toll: 30 forest fires, 47 injuries and 4 lives lost, contrasting 2024's broader damage from dry spells and short circuits. Bandipora achieved near-zero fatalities with just 5 forest fires and 2 injuries, while Baramulla peaked at 158 calls in November-December alone.
Prolonged dry weather, short circuits and gas leaks fueled both years' spikes, with 2025's November-December surge hitting around 190 calls regional, which echoed 2024 patterns but met with swifter responses.
Meanwhile, Deputy Director F&ES, Mir Arif told KNO that the dry spell has significantly contributed to fire incidents alongside common causes like electricity short circuits and gas leaks. "Our 42 stations and 444 personnel across North Kashmir, including 175 in Baramulla, 182 in Kupwara and 87 in Bandipora, managed 1,142 calls in 2025 without any firemen injuries, down from 1,212 last year—yet vigilance remains key."
He urged installing smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and evacuation plans while avoiding overloaded outlets and unattended flames—(KNO)