Forest Fires Rage in Uttarakhand, India, Destroying Over 33 Hectares in 24 Hours; Government Working with Army's MI 17

Forest fires in Uttarakhand, India have intensified, with the flames extending to Nainital's High Court Colony on Friday. In the last 24 hours, 31 new incidents of forest fire were reported, destroying 33.34 hectares of forest land. The fire near Nainital district headquarters has posed a threat to the residents of High Court Colony, prompting the administration to seek help from the Army and deploy a helicopter to aid the fire-fighting efforts.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has urged officials to remain alert and take measures to prevent the fires by coordinating with all departments. "In view of the incidents of forest fires, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has asked all the district magistrates, concerned departments and SDRF to remain alert and work in coordination," said a statement from the Chief Minister's Office.

Three men were arrested in Rudraprayag for allegedly starting forest fires in two different areas. One of the accused, a sheep herder, admitted to setting the forest ablaze to allow fresh grass to grow for his sheep. "The three accused were produced before the court, which sent them to judicial custody," said Rudraprayag Kotwali SHO Amit Kumar.

Why this matters: The rapid spread of forest fires in Uttarakhand is causing significant environmental damage and threatening the safety of residents. The arrests highlight the human factors contributing to the fires, emphasizing the need for increased vigilance and public awareness to prevent such incidents.

Since November 1, 2022, the state has reported a total of 575 incidents of forest fire, affecting 689.89 hectares of forest area and costing the state more than Rs 14 lakh. The forest fires have intensified in the past week, with the Kumaon region being the most affected. The Indian Air Force has deployed MI-17 helicopters to help extinguish the fires in Nainital. As the situation remains critical, the Uttarakhand government is taking all necessary measures to control the fires and ensure the safety of its residents.

Key Takeaways

• Forest fires in Uttarakhand have intensified, reaching Nainital's High Court Colony.
• 31 new incidents of forest fire in 24 hours, destroying 33.34 hectares of land.
• 3 men arrested for allegedly starting fires, including a sheep herder.
• Since Nov 2022, 575 forest fire incidents affecting 689.89 hectares, costing ₹14 lakh.
• Uttarakhand govt. taking measures to control fires, including Army and IAF deployment.