Itanagar, Jan 30 (NationPress) A significant forest fire ignited along the western ridge of the Lohit River in Arunachal Pradesh’s Anjaw district but was effectively contained due to the rapid and well-coordinated efforts of Army personnel and the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The IAF announced on the social media platform X that its Mi-17V5 helicopters executed aerial firefighting missions at an altitude of almost 9,500 feet in the Lohit Valley. “Engaging in firefighting operations at nearly 9,500 feet in Arunachal Pradesh’s Lohit Valley. IAF Mi-17V5 helicopters released 12,000 liters of water in the thin Himalayan air, demonstrating remarkable bravery, accuracy, and dedication to safeguarding lives and fragile ecosystems,” the post stated.

In another update on X, the Spear Corps of the Indian Army confirmed that a large forest fire had erupted along the western ridge of the Lohit River in Anjaw district. They stated that, in a collaborative and prompt response, troops from the Spear Corps, alongside the IAF, swiftly mobilized and successfully managed to control the fire, ensuring the safety of civilian lives and properties.

A forest official remarked that the operation posed unique challenges due to the rugged terrain, steep ridgelines, and unpredictable winds in the region. “The unified efforts of ground forces and aircrew were pivotal in controlling the fire before it could encroach upon nearby settlements,” the official noted.

Authorities emphasized that such cooperative operations are vital for safeguarding both vulnerable communities and the delicate Himalayan ecosystem. The mission also highlighted the readiness, teamwork, and professionalism of the armed forces in effectively responding to natural emergencies in remote and sensitive ecological regions.

The successful management of the fire is a testament to the valor and operational skills of the personnel involved, who operated under harsh conditions to protect lives, forests, and biodiversity, the official further elaborated.

Forest fires are increasingly becoming a significant threat to the verdant landscapes of Northeast India, which consists of eight states. A recent study indicated a concerning rise in the frequency of forest fires in this ecologically vulnerable area due to climate fluctuations, as mentioned by the forest official.

The study revealed that nearly 80 percent of annual forest fires in the region occurred between March and April, with the years 2006, 2007, 2009, and 2010 experiencing exceptionally high incidents of forest fires.