A massive wildfire has engulfed forest land under Khonoma village, west of Kohima, causing extensive damage to virgin forest areas and raising serious concerns for the ecologically sensitive Dzukou Valley, officials said.
According to authorities and village leaders, the fire was accidentally triggered by four local trekkers who had lit a campfire in a valley area. The flames reportedly spiralled out of control after the trekkers left the spot to fetch water. As the fire spread rapidly, the trekkers were trapped and later rescued on Saturday by volunteers of the Khonoma Youth Organisation (KYO). Officials said the individuals have since confessed to igniting the fire.
An aerial survey conducted by government agencies has revealed widespread destruction across large stretches of untouched forest, with the blaze spreading in multiple directions. Sources said the aerial assessment was carried out after drone surveillance proved unfeasible due to the difficult terrain.
Volunteers from the KYO, along with personnel from the police, fire and emergency services, forest department, and disaster management agencies, continue to battle the fire on the ground. Officials warned that although the blaze is moving slowly, it is advancing steadily.
According to the government officials, the fire is spreading towards Hophera Thi near the Jotsoma–Khonoma border, increasing the risk of further expansion into rugged and hard-to-access areas.
Dzukou Valley, known for its rare flora, alpine meadows, and popular trekking routes, remains highly vulnerable due to dry vegetation and prevailing weather conditions. The local administration has imposed a complete ban on trekking until the fire is fully brought under control.
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