Officials Review Dzükou Forest Fire Situation
KOHIMA, Feb 12: A team led by Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, conducted an aerial survey on 11 February 2026 to assess the forest fire situation in Dzükou Valley and Mt. Japfü.
The team included District Commandant HG, CD & SDRF, Wopenthung; Nodal Officer DDMA, Thejangulie Zao; and President, Southern Angami Youth Organization (SAYO), Zasitsolie Beio.
The survey revealed that the southern, eastern and western ranges of Dzükou Valley and adjoining mountain areas have been significantly burnt, with no active flames except residual smoke in isolated pockets. However, active fire continues on the northern face around Mt. Japfü, posing a serious risk of spreading towards Mt. Kahu and re-entering the unburnt portions of Dzükou Valley through dense pine forests.
The team expressed serious concern over the Kigwema mountain slope, which is densely forested with tall, dry trees, increasing the risk of crown fires, falling embers and secondary ignition, potentially leading to rapid and uncontrollable fire spread.
Due to the extreme inaccessibility of the terrain, steep slopes, lack of motorable access and the vast area involved, ground-based firefighting operations are not feasible in the critical zones.
In view of the situation and its potential ecological impact, the team recommended the immediate deployment of Indian Air Force helicopters with Bambi Buckets for aerial water-dousing to prevent further escalation.
A team from the Department of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) also visited Dzükou to document the damage caused by the forest fire, which began in the last week of January and continues to burn. (Shahlong, IA Jakhama)
