Excelsior Correspondent
POONCH, May 29: A massive forest fire broke out in the upper reaches of Surankote, but prompt action by the Forest department officials and local residents, helped bring the fire under control.
Official sources said that blaze spread along the Mughal Road, damaging forest areas and causing panic among commuters as flames and thick smoke billowed close to this historic route connecting Poonch with Shopian district in Kashmir.
Officials claimed that the Mughal Road remained safe for traffic movement and no casualties or major disruptions were reported.
They said teams of the Forest department remained engaged for several hours in controlling the fire, while local villagers also joined the efforts to prevent the flames from spreading further.
The Forest and Police personnel continued to monitor the affected area to prevent any new flare-up, especially given the prevailing dry weather conditions.
The District administration Poonch has urged travelers and residents to stay calm and advised them to exercise caution while moving through forest area.
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