Guwahati: The Indian Air Force is actively engaged in combating forest fires in Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, providing aerial support to ground teams in remote, rugged regions.
A major fire erupted at Walong in Arunachal Pradesh’s Anjaw district, February 13, affecting several parts of the town and causing local residents to evacuate.
Air Force helicopters were deployed to douse the flames, releasing nearly 1.4 lakh litres of water over multiple sorties. Officials confirmed that the fire has now been brought under control, while damage assessment is ongoing.
Firefighting continues in Nagaland’s Dzukou Valley, where helicopters are scooping water from Padumpokhiri Lake near Dimapur to suppress fires along the slopes surrounding Japfu Peak. Crews face steep hills, reduced visibility, and thinner air, making operations extremely challenging.
Local MLA and minister Dasanglu Pul described the Walong blaze as critical and urged the public to remain cautious. She called on residents and visitors to strictly follow safety instructions and prioritise community well-being.
Pul also appealed for cooperation with emergency responders, warning against any reckless or deliberate actions that could put lives, property, or the environment at risk.
She added that those found interfering with safety operations or causing harm would face strict legal consequences.
Firefighting personnel are actively patrolling the impacted areas to contain the blaze and reduce the risk of it spreading further.