Sun Dec 14 05:10:53 UTC 2025: Here’s a news article summarizing the provided text:
Wildfire Rages in Nagaland’s Dzukou Valley, Aerial Firefighting to Commence
Kohima, Nagaland – December 14, 2025 – A major wildfire continues to burn through the ecologically sensitive Dzukou Valley in Nagaland, entering its third day and prompting officials to deploy aerial firefighting operations. The fire, which began on Friday, December 12, 2025, has already consumed an estimated 1.3 sq km of forest area and is spreading towards the Japfu mountain range due to strong winds.
District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) officials in Kohima have requisitioned a helicopter equipped with a “bambi bucket” from the Indian Air Force, through the Nagaland State Disaster Management Authority (NSDMA). The aerial firefighting operation is scheduled to begin today, Sunday, December 14th, 2025.
Authorities attribute the fire to four local trekkers who accidentally ignited it at their campsite. The trekkers were later rescued by the Khonoma Youth Organisation (KYO) after becoming trapped by the rapidly spreading flames. They have reportedly confessed to starting the blaze.
The difficult terrain, steep slopes, and dense vegetation are hindering ground efforts to contain the fire. An aerial survey revealed extensive damage to the pristine forest. Volunteers from KYO, along with police, fire, forest, and disaster management personnel, are on-site.
Officials have warned that the fire is spreading towards Hophera Thi near the Jotsoma-Khonoma border, and they are urging the public and trekkers to avoid the area. Trekking has been banned in the Dzukou Valley until the fire is completely under control. The Dzukou Valley is a vital ecosystem known for its unique flora and trekking trails, making the containment of the wildfire a top priority.
First Piper 