Excelsior Correspondent
MENDHAR, May 28: Dozens of mine explosions took place as the forest fire broke out along the Line of Control (LoC) in Deri- Dabsi and Lanjiot area of Mendhar tehsil this afternoon.
Reports said that the fire started from the PoK side and then spread over 2-3 sq km area on this side of the LoC. As the fire went on spreading, the series of mines went on exploding with big bangs. It also created a scare in the area for the civilian population. The fire also caused some damage to the Army infrastructure and flora and fauna in the area. Many animal species are said to have suffered loss in the wild fire.
The Army and the Forest officials sounded alert and started operation to contain fire. The fire actually started at around 2 pm and then it went on spreading on this side of the LoC. It covered nearly 2-3 sq km area of Lanjiot and Deri Dabsi Forest. The Army suspected that it could be deliberate attempt from across the LoC for facilitating infiltration attempt of the armed militants. The fire also cleared mine fields in the targeted area and ensured safe passage for intruders. Thick clouds of smoke had enveloped a larger area. It also diverted the attention of the Army petrol along the LoC.
Meanwhile, the Army further strengthened the vigil along the LoC after this fire incident. Some additional patrols were pressed into service to intensify vigil all along the LoC in the affected area.
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