Dehradun: On Sunday, rain assisted in dousing the flames in numerous areas, including Dehradun, as the forest fires that had been burning through most of Uttarakhand showed signs of abating. But in the hill state's districts of Kumaon and Garhwal, the fires didn't let up.
Officials from the forest and fire departments are still on high alert and are working nonstop to put out the fires in the regions of Nainital, Bhimtal, Ranibagh, Jyolikot, Kotabag, and Betalghat. Yesterday, smoke billowed from the fires as they approached Nainital, a mountainous town. Army helicopters that were called into action helped with the firefighting efforts.
The rain that fell on Saturday night was a comfort since it put out the fires in most of Uttarakhand, including Dehradun. In the regions of Nainital, Bhimtal, Ranibagh, Jyolikot, Kotabag, and Betalghat, however, firefighting efforts are still ongoing. Pushkar Singh Dhami, the chief minister of Uttarakhand, held a review meeting on Saturday to talk about the Nainital forest fire situation. Concerned officials' leaves were canceled, and he asked them to maintain their vigilance while attempts were made to put out the forest fires.
Two government vehicles were given to each of the forest divisions in Nainital, Haldwani, and Ramnagar to help in relief and rescue efforts. Until the matter is resolved, district officials have banned the construction of homes and the operation of car washes. They are also trying to inform and raise awareness of the risks associated with setting trash on fire.
