Chumoukedima, Nagaland, February 2 (HBTV): The fire in the southern areas of Dzükou Valley in Kohima entered its seventh day on Sunday, with authorities confirming that while significant progress has been made in containing the blaze, firefighting operations are still underway in pockets around Mount Tempü.
Kohima Deputy Commissioner B Henok Buchem told media persons that approximately 150 personnel had been deployed and were working manually to contain the fire. The team comprises officials and personnel from the Forest Department, Fire and Emergency Services, Police, SDRF, Disaster Management Authority, Home Guards, drone operators, DBs, the 13th Assam Rifles, and volunteers from the Southern Angami Youth Organisation.
The official said the authorities had been battling the fire, which reportedly started on January 26, from day-one. Even on February 1, a large force continued with the ground operations, supported by aerial surveillance and assistance.
Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters will continue the bucket operations on February 2, following three sorties conducted on February 1. Two IAF helicopters have been deployed for the operation.
Buchem said that while an assessment of damage is yet to be conducted, preliminary views suggest that approximately one-third of the affected area in and around the southern side may have been damaged.
The official expressed relief that the main Dzükou Valley was untouched. He said authorities are confident that it is currently free from further fire hazards.
Sothern Angami Youth Organization President Zasitsolie Beio, also gave an update on the situation. He said smoke is still visible on the southern side, while none is so in the main valley. On the eastern side, smoke has been noticed in a few isolated pockets, but officials believe the fire there is unlikely to spread. He added that if dew falls, the remaining fire may subside naturally.
Concerns were also raised about trekkers entering the valley without registration or local guides. The SAYO president iterated the organization’s appeal to all visitors to register, engage local guides, and to follow rules, citing recent reports of a missing person as an example of the risks involved.