A massive fire in the Dzukou Valley has been raging for almost three days, and it is currently moving in the direction of Mount Esii, the tallest peak
in Manipur. Locals and officials reported the fire a day or two after it was initially spotted on January 26.
It began in the valley's thick woods and grasslands on the Nagaland–Manipur border, and has rapidly expanded due to dry weather and high winds.
The Dzukou Valley is a well-known and picturesque location with seasonal wildflowers, rolling green hills, and the rare Dzukou lily.
Trekkers and wildlife enthusiasts from all across India often visit this famous location. The valley is extremely combustible due to the dry winter weather, according to officials, particularly the dry grass and bamboo that cover a large portion of the terrain.
The fire has been difficult for volunteers and local officials to put out. Police, state fire services, and teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been dispatched to assist. Additionally, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) has been trying to protect neighbouring communities and forest regions by working on the ground.
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Around 30 trekkers were caught in the fire and stuck in the valley as the flames advanced. Rescue personnel successfully removed these hikers from danger on Wednesday. Local volunteer organisations, such as the Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) and Southern Angami Public Organisation (SAPO), and the district administration have been assisting with rescue and firefighting operations as well.
According to the officials, all trekking activities in the Dzukou Valley have been temporarily halted from both the Jakhama and Viswema access points. Additionally, the Senapati district government in Manipur has sent an advisory to pilgrims and tourists to avoid the area until the fire is contained.
Although the precise reason or origin of the current fire has not yet been established, some Nagaland residents do not rule out arson and the involvement of miscreants.
“Trekkers often visit the base of Dzukou Valley, where fires typically begin. In this case, the fire originated on a slope. The fire is so huge that it appears beyond control for now,” a Southern Angami area resident told India Today Digital.
This Dzukou Valley wildfire event occurred less than a month after a significant fire in December that required the involvement of several agencies in firefighting efforts.
Fires often occurs in Nagaland's Dzukou Valley due to the region's alpine meadows, seasonal wildflowers, and dwarf rhododendrons, as well as the dry winter months of December and January with little to no rainfall. Locals have also blamed the negligence of tourists and hikers for the majority of fires in the Dzukou Valley.
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