About 20 decimals of forest were damaged in a fire that broke out above the Hindu temple in Kuenselphodrang, Thimphu yesterday.

Bikers informed the police of the fire which had started at around 10:50am.

Police deployed three fire engines and were able to contain the fire immediately. According to police, the fire started due to unsupervised incense offering (sang)and said that they are trying to find the person who left the incense burning.

They said that if anyone is found making any types of open fire, they could be fined accordingly for carelessness and negligence. “Although it has rained recently, the places are still dry from winter. Therefore, people should not make any open fire especially near risk areas such as dry forests.”

Police also urge people not to burn orchard and other wastes that could otherwise be used as manure.

Staff reporter