Dzukou: Only hillock, not valley on fire, says forest officer

The Nagaland Forest Department is trying its best to control the fire that has engulfed the Dzukou valley. Rajkumar M, IFS and the Divisional Forest Officer of Kohima, who is on site with his team alongwith Southern Angami Youth Association (SAYO) members told media persons, “Not the main valley, but a hillock near the main valley is on fire. We are trying our best to save it by all possible ways.”

The Range Officer of Kohima also added that the team is planning to make a fire line cutting to control the wildfire.

Also Read: Dzukou valley on fire, seen from Kohima

A massive fire broke out at the picturesque Dzukou valley late on Tuesday, forcing the state disaster management authority to work towards dousing the fire with the help of Air Force choppers.

Dzukou, situated about 30 km from Kohima, is also a sanctuary for endangered tragopans and other species of birds and animals.

Earlier in November 2018, a major fire had damaged a portion of the picturesque Dzukou valley. It was contained by the SAYO volunteers.

Another devastating fire in 2006 had wiped out a 20-km stretch of Southern Dzukou when the state government was compelled to draft an SOS to the Centre for logistical help like choppers.