Indian military denies landmine explosions cause forest fire along Kashmir control line
Indian military denies landmine explosions cause forest fire along Kashmir control line
13 March 2009
published by news.xinhuanet.com
Srinagar, Kashmir, India — The Indian military based in Indian-controlled Kashmir Friday denied that the forest fire which has been going on for the past two days along the line of control bordering Pakistan-controlled Kashmir was caused by explosion of landmines.
According to a report, the forest fire on the line-of-control in Poonch area of Indian-controlled Kashmir was triggered by landmine explosions.
The United News of India news service reported Thursday that more than 200 landmines exploded in Pakistani side and ignited the forest, causing columns of smoke emanating from the fire and engulfing the hilly terrain.
Indian army spokesperson, Viplav Nath, who is stationed in Jammu, the summer capital of Indian-controlled Kashmir, denied in a telephonic interview that explosions of landmines triggered the forest fire.
“Forest fires are the common thing in forests. So far we haven’t received any report about loss of life or damage to any property,” Nath said.
However, Indian police has confirmed the forest fire but ruled out explosions in the area.
Police officer Farooq Ahmad at Mendhar police station of Jammu region said that the fire originated from Pakistani side and cause is yet to be ascertained.
