IAF Springs Into Action Against Uttarakhand Forest Fire
The Indian Air Force demonstrated its rapid response capabilities on Thursday. It moved quickly to contain a dangerous forest fire in Uttarakhand's ecologically sensitive Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve.
Helicopter Deployment at Joshimath
Following an urgent request from the Uttarakhand state government, the IAF deployed an Mi-17 V5 helicopter in firefighting mode. The aircraft operated from Joshimath to combat the blaze. The Central Air Command confirmed this deployment through an official social media post.
The Central Air Command stated that this operation highlighted the IAF's operational readiness once again. It also emphasized the force's dual role in both national defense and disaster response situations.
Fire Location and Initial Response
The forest fire broke out in challenging rocky terrain between the Alaknanda and Lakshman Ganga rivers. This area falls within the Govindghat range of Nanda Devi National Park in Chamoli district.
Local authorities reacted immediately. The Chamoli district administration placed itself on full alert upon detecting the fire. District Magistrate Gaurav Kumar took personal initiative to arrange aerial surveillance of the affected zone.
Ongoing Operations and Safety Assessment
Firefighting efforts continue with aerial support. The Uttarakhand Department of Information and Public Relations provided updates about the operation. They confirmed that helicopters and drones are conducting reconnaissance and monitoring of the fire-affected area simultaneously with extinguishing efforts.
After conducting the helicopter survey, Divisional Forest Officer Sarvesh Dubey offered reassuring news. He confirmed to news agencies that two important locations within the reserve remain completely safe. Both the Valley of Flowers and Hemkund Sahib pilgrimage site face no immediate threat from the fire.
About the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve
The affected area forms part of a significant conservation zone. The Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve spans more than 6,407 square kilometers of Himalayan wilderness. Official descriptions characterize it as a spectacular expanse in the upper Himalayas.
The reserve maintains a two-zone structure for protection. It contains both a core zone and an outer buffer zone to preserve its unique ecology. This firefighting operation aims to protect this important natural heritage site from significant damage.
