The Dzükou wildfire entered its 17th day as Mount Japfü caught fire, raising fears of further spread toward Kigwema and remaining parts of the valley.
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KOHIMA — The wildfire at Dzükou Valley entered its 17th day on Wednesday since it broke out on January 26, with Mt. Japfü currently on fire, raising fresh concerns of further spread.
An aerial reconnaissance of the forest fire was conducted on Wednesday by a team comprising Deputy Commissioner of Kohima B Henok Buchem, Nodal Officer Thejangulie Zao, District Commandant SDRF Wopenthung, Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) president Zasitsolie Beio and Tselie Yhoshü. The team assessed the prevailing situation of the Dzükou wildfire.
Also read: Fire breaks out in Southern Dzükou Valley; Kohima DC orders containment operation
Beio informed that Mt. Japfü, located on the northern side of Dzükou, is currently burning and poses a risk of the fire spreading further towards the valley.
If the blaze continues unchecked, it could engulf areas of Dzükou Valley that have so far remained unaffected, he warned.
Beio said that the fire behind Mt. Japfü could also spread to Mt. Kahu, adding that an estimated 12 to 15 km stretch may have already been affected by the wildfire.
He expressed concern that if the fire reaches the forested mountain slopes of Kigwema, which are densely wooded, it could escalate rapidly.
He further cautioned that the pine forests in the area could catch fire within the next two to three days if the blaze is not contained.
Once the fire reaches the pine forest, it is likely to spread back towards the valley. Unless doused, the wildfire could continue for another four to five days, he added.
Meanwhile, it was observed that the southern side of Dzükou Valley has been completely burnt, with no visible smoke except in a small portion of Theviitse area, which is unlikely to spread further.
The eastern side, from Viswema to Mt. Lemvürhü and Kigwema, has also been fully affected. Adjacent mountain ranges including Khesi Dzü, Tevü Chede and Japfü Kecü have reportedly been burnt.
Beio informed that Indian Air Force (IAF) Bambi bucket operations have been halted temporarily, but surveillance teams continue to actively monitor and assess the situation on the ground.