The state of Uttarakhand is currently battling multiple forest fires across eight districts, with the blaze posing a threat to the hill station of Nainital. As firefighters race against time to contain the fires, various agencies, including the Indian Air Force (IAF), Home Guard, Indian Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and Prantiya Rakshak Dal, have been mobilized to support the firefighting efforts.
The situation is dire, with at least 76 fires reported in the last 24 hours alone. The fires have spread across Almora, Chamoli, Nainital, and Pauri Garhwal districts, prompting the deployment of resources and personnel to combat the inferno. The severity of the situation is further underscored by remote sensing data from NASA's FIRMS, which reveals the extensive area affected by the fires since April 20, 2024.
The Indian Air Force has been actively involved in firefighting operations, deploying a Mi-17 helicopter equipped with a Bambi bucket system to douse the flames near Nainital. This specialized aerial firefighting tool allows the helicopter to transport large quantities of water from nearby sources, such as lakes or reservoirs, and release it over the fire zone with precision. Additionally, over 40 personnel from the NDRF have been deployed to assist in firefighting efforts.
The forest fires in Uttarakhand are a result of a combination of factors, including dry weather conditions, drought, and human activities. According to the Forest Research Institute, 95% of forest fires are caused by human actions, such as burning of waste, unattended campfires, and intentional arson. Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution and refrain from activities that could potentially spark fires in forested areas.
As the firefighting operations continue, efforts are being made to raise awareness and prevent further incidents of forest fires. Public cooperation is crucial in this endeavor, with authorities urging citizens to report any instances of fire ignition in forested areas. With concerted efforts from various agencies and increased vigilance from the public, it is hoped that the ongoing forest fires in Uttarakhand can be brought under control and contained before further damage is done to the region's ecosystem.
