Kohima, December 31 (NEx): The Wildfire which broke out along a trekking route leading to the scenic Dzükou valley on Tuesday, December 29, 2020 shows no sign of abating, as it continues to spread and entered into third day today. Major operations are underway and Eastern Air Command, IAF has launched a Mi-17 V5 helicopter to contain the fire breakout.
Based on the requisition by the State Government of Nagaland, the Eastern Air Command, IAF has launched a Mi-17 V5 helicopter. The helicopter is equipped with Bambi Bucket for fire fighting in Dzukou Valley near Kohima,” spokesperson of Eastern Air Command Headquarters at Shillong, Wing Commander Ratnakar Singh said in a statement on Thursday morning.
Meanwhile, DFO, Kohima, Raj Kumar IFS on Thursday informed about the major operation by Kohima Forest Division and Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) volunteers today. More than 250 members are trying to save Dzukou valley from fire. It is the Third day into the battle, updated Kumar.
Major operation by Kohima Forest Division and SAYO volunteers today. More than 250 members trying to save Dzukou valley from fire. It is Third day into the battle. #Nagaland pic.twitter.com/2o2yA8exDw
— Rajkumar M, IFS (@rajkumar_ifs) December 31, 2020
Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh also sought help, as the wild fire which started at the Dzuko Valley from Nagaland side has crossed over to Manipur. The officials and villagers could not enter the burning areas as the scale of fire is too large with strong gust of wind blowing out from Dzükou valley made the fire spread more fiercely and rapidly, making it difficult to control by manpower, updated Manipur Chief Minister, N Biren Singh.
Wildfire at Dzuko valley Officials and villagers could not enter the burning areas as the scale of fire is too large with strong winds and there is no proper equipment it may be difficult to control by manpower. The grasses are dry, More manpower are sending with equipment. pic.twitter.com/2RrDRfEDov
— N.Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) December 30, 2020
Meanwhile, as part of the planned visit, Nagaland Governor RN Ravi along with his family on Wednesday visited the valley. He was accompanied by DC Kohima, SP Kohima, district administration officials, Jakhama SDO (C), Kohima forest officials, SAYO leaders, SASU President alongwith others.