Viswema Village Council expresses concern over the recent wildfire “deliberately set ablaze” on January 26.
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DIMAPUR — The Viswema Village Council (VVC) has expressed concern and anguish over the recent wildfire that was “deliberately set ablaze” on January 26, resulting in massive destruction to the village lands of Khiyoke and Mt. Tempü.
In a press release, the VVC claimed that these areas are the exclusive property and natural heritage of Viswema village, crucial to the ecological balance, livelihood, and heritage of the Viswemi people.
“Khiyoke, in particular, serves as an important route to the famous Dzükou Valley, and along with Mt. Tempü, receives numerous visitors and trekkers from different places.
“The reckless act has caused significant environmental damage and undermines the responsibility entrusted to the village as the sole custodian of these lands. It also poses a serious threat to public safety, tourism, and the sustainable preservation of these vital natural resources,” the council stated.
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The council strongly urged the person(s) responsible to come forward voluntarily and confess before being identified.
“Failure to do so will leave the council with no alternative but to initiate strict action; once caught, the offender(s) will face the full course of action as per village customary laws and relevant regulations, and the matter will be dealt with firmly and without leniency,” the council warned.
Further, the VVC appealed to all residents, visitors, and concerned stakeholders to remain vigilant and cooperate in safeguarding “our lands and natural resources.”
“While Khiyoke and Mt. Tempü are the exclusive property of the Viswemi people, the council emphasises that the preservation of these areas is a shared responsibility, and everyone who visits or passes through these sites must act responsibly,” it stated.