In a promising turn of events, the wildfire in Western Dzükou Valley appears to be largely under control, as of December 14. A team comprising members of the Khonoma Youth Organization and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) personnel conducted a comprehensive on-site inspection earlier today, and their report suggests significant progress in containing the blaze.
The team returned to base camp by evening after confirming that the fire’s spread has been significantly reduced compared to the earlier chaotic days of the emergency. Authorities are now working tirelessly to ensure that the remaining hotspots are completely extinguished and that no further fire hazards persist.
In an effort to further contain the fire and expedite efforts, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will begin aerial operations on December 15, deploying helicopters with Bambi buckets to douse the remaining flames. These operations will enhance the ground teams’ ability to cover the difficult-to-reach areas in the rugged terrain.
To ensure complete containment and further assess the situation, another joint inspection is scheduled for December 15. A coordinated group, including representatives from the Police, Forest Department, Fire Department, SDRF, and volunteers from Khonoma village, will depart the base camp at 9:00 AM to conduct this vital check.
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Keviseto Savino, president of the Khonoma Youth Organization provided a crucial update on the ongoing efforts to control the wildfire in Western Dzükou Valley. Savino said that on December 14, approximately 60 youth volunteers from the organization participated in a site visit to assess the current state of the fire.
According to Savino, there are no more active flames, but smoldering remains persist in certain areas. “In some parts of the valley, the woods are still burning faintly, and smoke continues to rise from those areas,” Savino said.
“While the active fire has been largely contained, we must remain vigilant and continue monitoring these hotspots,” he said.
Savino also informed that Khonoma Youth Organization plans to conduct a more thorough survey tomorrow, along with other response teams, to assess whether the fire has been fully controlled. “We want to make sure that everything has been completely extinguished before we can call the situation fully under control,” he explained.
“With the windy season upon us, there’s a risk that any lingering embers could flare up again, so it’s critical to ensure the fire is completely out,” he added.
Savino emphasized the need for continued caution and thoroughness in the final stages of containment. “The safety of our community and the preservation of the valley’s natural environment remain our top priority,” he said.
