Uncontrolled wildfire in Dzükou Valley spreads for third day, prompting trekking suspension as officials assess damage, consider firefighting.
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KOHIMA — The wildfire in the southern part of Dzükou Valley entered its third day on Wednesday, with officials stating that the affected area has expanded significantly and is now humanly impossible to control.
Vineikho Tetso, SDO Jakhama, told Eastern Mirror that a drone survey of the valley was being conducted at the time of filing the report. He said the fire continues to spread and the burning area has become too vast for manual intervention.
Tetso said that after the aerial survey, a detailed report would be submitted to the deputy commissioner of Kohima, following which further steps would be discussed.
Related: Fire breaks out in Southern Dzükou Valley; Kohima DC orders containment operation
He added that the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA) has suggested the possible use of a Bambi bucket with a helicopter, and that the matter would be formally taken up with the deputy commissioner.
He confirmed that no human casualties have been reported so far but said officials are checking to ensure that no people are stranded in the valley.
Meanwhile, trekking to Dzükou Valley has been temporarily suspended in view of the fire. The Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) issued a notification announcing the suspension following reports that the fire, which broke out on January 26, has been blazing uncontrollably and poses serious risks to trekkers.
The suspension applies to both entry points to the valley — Jakhama and Viswema — until further notice, the organisation said.
On the third day of the fire, teams from the NSDMA, the SDO Jakhama’s office, police personnel and SAYO visited the area to assess the situation. SAYO said it is coordinating with government agencies and other stakeholders to monitor developments and assess further action.