DODA: A disturbing image showing charred birds has gone viral across Chenab Valley, sparking widespread outrage and debate about superstition and environmental responsibility. Shared widely on social media, the image is accompanied by claims that the act is linked to a myth that forest fires can induce rainfall—an unfounded belief that has drawn criticism from locals and activists alike.
The Chenab Times was unable to independently verify the authenticity of the image or its context. However, it comes at a time when unseasonal forest fires have gripped parts of Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban districts during the winter season, compounding concerns over the region’s prolonged dry spell.
While winter in Jammu and Kashmir is typically marked by snowfall and rainfall, this year has seen an unusual lack of precipitation, leading to dry and flammable forest conditions. The fires, both controlled and uncontrolled, have posed serious environmental and safety risks in the region.
A recent forest fire in Ramban district’s Upper Nachlana area turned deadly earlier this week when a burning tree fell on a truck (JK03G-1677) passing through the national highway. The truck driver died on the spot, and his helper sustained injuries, requiring treatment at District Hospital Banihal. Firefighters eventually managed to bring the blaze under control, but not before over a dozen large trees were destroyed.
“The extended dry spell, even during winter, has made our forests vulnerable to fires,” said a forest official. “This is highly unusual for this time of year and signals a worrying environmental trend.”
Locals and activists have condemned the viral image, which shows birds apparently burned in connection with an attempt to invoke rainfall. “This is shocking and inhumane,” said Abid Ramzan, a resident of Thathri while speaking to The Chenab Times. “Superstition has no place in addressing our current weather challenges. Burning animals in the name of rain is a cruel and senseless act.”
Activist Mansoor Ahmed highlighted the ecological cost of forest fires during winter. “Forest fires in this season are rare, but when they occur, they wreak havoc on ecosystems already under stress due to the lack of moisture,” he explained. “The viral image reflects ignorance that can worsen these challenges instead of solving them.”
Farmers in the region are growing increasingly anxious about the lack of rainfall, which has affected soil moisture and disrupted local water sources. “We rely on winter rain and snow for the year’s water supply,” said Mushtaq Ahmed, a farmer from Kishtwar. “The land is dry, and people are desperate, but burning forests will only bring more destruction.”
Activists and environmental experts are urging authorities to investigate incidents of forest fires and launch public awareness campaigns to counter myths linking fires to rainfall. “The belief that forest fires can bring rain is not only unscientific but dangerous,” said activist Sajad Hussain Shah. “The real focus should be on preserving our forests and mitigating the effects of climate change.”
The unusual dry spell during what should be a wet winter has heightened the urgency for long-term environmental planning in Chenab Valley. With no significant rainfall or snowfall in sight, the region faces the risk of both ecological and economic challenges if these trends continue.
As the debate over the viral image and the broader crisis unfolds, residents hope for relief in the form of much-needed rain or snow—but also for a stronger commitment to environmental preservation and humane practices.
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Anzer Ayoob is the Founder and Chief Editor to The Chenab Times
