Wokha wildfire contained | Nagaland reports 114 forest fires in 2 months, Fire Dept calls for accountability

The wildfire in Wokha has been brought under control, according to L. Jonjibemo Odyuo, the Nodal Officer for the District Disaster Management Authority. In an update, Odyuo acknowledged the combined efforts of various personnel, departments, and volunteers, particularly from Wokha village, in combating the blaze. While the fire has not been fully extinguished, it is currently manageable. He also urged the public to exercise caution, especially regarding slash-and-burn farming practices, and emphasized the need to follow safety measures.

Meanwhile, Sub-Inspector M Pentick Konyak, who had gone missing during the firefighting operations yesterday, was found this morning at a farm several kilometers away from Yikhum Village. His disappearance had raised concerns, but his safe recovery has come as a relief to the firefighting team.

In a separate development, the Fire & Emergency Services Department issued a statement expressing ongoing concerns over rampant forest fires, especially during the dry and windy season.

Despite efforts from firefighters, village volunteers, and local authorities, indiscriminate burning by hunters, campers, and miscreants continues to fuel the fires. The department stressed that it cannot address every forest fire unless it threatens residential areas.

The department also highlighted the serious ecological implications of such uncontrolled fires. It has urged the public and Village Councils to take proactive measures to identify and hold accountable those responsible for starting the fires. In the past two and a half months, Nagaland has witnessed 114 forest fire cases, with Kohima district alone accounting for 67 incidents.

MT