A massive forest fire continues to engulf pristine forests in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lohit Valley, prompting a high-risk aerial firefighting operation by the Indian Air Force. Mi-17V5 helicopters dropped 12,000 litres of water at nearly 9,500 feet above sea level, navigating steep Himalayan ridges and rarefied air to contain the blaze threatening large forest tracts and nearby habitations.
The operation was launched following a request from the state government, as ground firefighting teams struggled to reach the fire due to rugged terrain. Units of the Indian Army, along with state forest officials, worked to cut fire lines and prevent flames from advancing toward villages in the Lohit-Anjaw belt. The coordinated air-ground effort helped bring the main blaze under control, though teams remain on alert due to dry conditions and shifting winds.
Forest officials attributed the rapid fire spread to dry winter vegetation, steep slopes, and gusty winds. While no loss of life or civilian property has been reported, residents of some vulnerable hamlets were temporarily evacuated as a precaution. Environmentalists warned that recurring wildfires threaten fragile Himalayan ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
Meanwhile, a wildfire in Nagaland’s Dzukou Valley forced the evacuation of over 30 trekkers, highlighting the ongoing high wildfire risk in northeastern India during dry winter months. Authorities continue containment efforts, urging local communities to avoid open burning and report any signs of fire.
The exact cause of the Lohit Valley fire remains under investigation, though dry conditions, accidental ignition, and human activity are considered contributing factors. Officials say aerial support will continue if new hotspots emerge.