Massive Forest Fires Spread Across Himachal Pradesh
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh: Massive forest fires broke out in the Solan and Kasauli regions of Himachal Pradesh. Rising temperatures, dry weather, and strong winds helped the fire spread quickly across forests, orchard land, and nearby villages.
The wildfire created concern among local residents and forced authorities to begin large-scale firefighting operations.
IAF Helicopters Join Firefighting Operations
The situation worsened after flames reached areas near the Indian Air Force Station in Kasauli. Soon after, the Indian Air Force (IAF) deployed Mi-17 and Chinook helicopters equipped with “Bambi Bucket” systems to control the blaze through aerial water-dropping operations.
The helicopters collected water from Chandigarh’s Sukhna Lake and dropped it over affected forest areas. Ground teams faced difficulty reaching several locations because of rough terrain and thick smoke.
Forest officials said the firefighting operation continued for more than 15 hours. The IAF, Army personnel, forest department, firefighters, local administration, and residents worked together to control the blaze.
Authorities confirmed that no major injuries or casualties have been reported so far.
Over 230 Fire Incidents Reported
Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Sanjay Sood said Himachal Pradesh has recorded more than 230 forest fire incidents this season. The fires have affected nearly 3,000 hectares of forest land across the state.
Officials estimate that the damage caused by these incidents has crossed ₹67 lakh.
Authorities Issue Public Advisory
Officials linked the rise in forest fires to increasing temperatures in districts such as Solan, Shimla, Una, and Kangra. The forest department has now increased monitoring in sensitive areas.
Authorities have advised tourists and residents not to light fires in forest regions. They also urged people to report smoke or fire immediately to local authorities.
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