Imphal/ Dimapur Jan 5, 2020: Firefighting continued in the northeast’s pristine Dzuko Valley as the massive wildfire that broke out on December 29 was yet to be doused. Though the Indian Air Force (IAF) believed that the fire was under control now, it’s expected to be completely doused in another 48 hours.
Dry grass and strong winds fanned the flames.
Dzuko valley is a popular trekking spot known for its seasonal flowers and bio-diversity located atop 2452-meter along the borders of Manipur and Nagaland. Enthusiasts visit the valley to view the pink and purple flowering on the hills that also houses endangered tragopans and other species
Officials of Kohima District Disaster Management Authority informed that activities of fire line cutting were carried out in full swing while four IAF helicopters-two from Rangapahar military station and two from Dimapur civil airfield equipped with ‘Bambi Bucket’ have been constantly trying to douse the fire.
“At least 56 sorties were done till Monday evening and some 75000 litres of water were dropped. IAF choppers will be operating on Tuesday also,” officials added. Teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have also been airlifted and working on the ground along with local forces.
Already the fire has ravaged over 10 kilometers of Dzukou valley.
Earlier, Union home minister Amit Shah on Friday assured the Manipur government of all support to control the Dzukou wildfire.
