An aerial view of the Dzükou valley area affected by the wildfire.
Kohima, December 16 (MExN): A joint spot survey by the Khonoma Youth Organization and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) on Tuesday confirmed that the wildfire in the western Dzükou valley has been “completely extinguished” with no signs of further hazards, the Kohima district administration announced.
Following the verification, authorities have decided to “officially call off and suspend all operations with immediate effect.”
In an official communication, Kohima Deputy Commissioner, B Henok Buchem expressed gratitude to the multiple state and local agencies involved in the containment effort. He credited their “exemplary service” for ensuring the fire was controlled and damage to the ecologically sensitive Dzükou valley was minimised.
The district administration extended note of appreciation to the State government, Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA), Khonoma Village Council, Khonoma Youth Organization, Western Angami Youth Organization, SDO Civil Sechu-Zubza, Kohima Police and SDPO North and personnel, District Commandant and SDRF of HG, CD & SDRF, Nodal Officer DDMA, Kohima Range Forest Officer and personnel, Fire & Emergency Services, the Indian Air Force (IAF) and local volunteers.
The wildfire began on December 12. Volunteers initially rescued four stranded trekkers from the area, who later admitted to accidentally starting the fire.
