Srinagar, April 3 -- South Kashmir has witnessed a surge in forest fire incidents over the past few days, with more than 20 reported cases in the last week alone. Officials said 18 fires have been controlled, while others remain active.

The fires, fueled by dry vegetation, have spread across Tral, Pinglish, Dadoo Marhama (Anantnag), Dachnipora (Pahalgam), and Khuwripora (Aishmuqam), affecting forest compartments 17, 21, 22, 50, and 58. Additionally, Budroo, Sallar, Kullar, Dehvatoo, Mawoora, Grendwan, Reshkobal, Hapatnad, Wajoora, and Pendobal have also suffered damage.

In Anantnag's Andoo-Shangus, officials managed to douse the flames after an intense operation, while another blaze continues in Kokernag's compartments 63 and 64. A sepa...