Nagaland: IAF continues sorties; manual ops planned to tackle Dzükou fire

The fire at the Southern Dzükou range showed signs of containment, with Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters carrying out multiple bambi-bucket sorties to douse the affected areas. According to ground reports, the fire around the Dzükou helipad has been successfully contained, while the main Dzükou valley remains largely free from any immediate threat.
However, officials said flames were still visible in and around Dzükou base camp area, necessitating continued monitoring and intervention.
In view of the prevailing situation, the response team has decided to mobilise 150 personnel drawn from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Fire and Emergency Services, Forest department, Police, Dobashis, drone pilots and operators, and volunteers of the Southern Angami Youth Organisation. The personnel will undertake a comprehensive manual operation to extinguish and contain the remaining fire on February 1, 2026. Meanwhile, the IAF will continue its bambi-bucket operations to support the containment efforts.
Deputy Commissioner Kohima visited the Southern Dzükou entry point at Viswema and held a detailed discussion with the surveillance team to assess the ground situation and review the ongoing response measures.