IAF Helicopters Drop 12,000 Litres of Water to Control Arunachal Forest Fire

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Friday expressed his gratitude to the Indian Air Force (IAF) for its rapid and effective response in controlling a massive forest fire in the Lohit Valley region. The blaze, which erupted along the western ridge of the Lohit River in Anjaw district, posed a serious threat to nearby communities and forested areas.

A coordinated operation involving IAF Mi-17V5 helicopters and Army personnel successfully brought the fire under control on Thursday. The helicopters carried out multiple aerial sorties at elevations of nearly 9,500 feet, dropping over 12,000 litres of water on the fire-affected areas, while ground troops assisted in containment efforts.

The operation faced significant challenges due to steep, inaccessible ridges and strong winds, which limited conventional firefighting methods. Despite the adverse conditions, officials confirmed that there were no casualties or damage to civilian property. The Chief Minister took to his official X handle to commend the swift action of the armed forces.

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The Indian Air Force lauded the operation, noting the exceptional courage and precision required to fight fires in the rarefied Himalayan air. The Spear Corps of the Army highlighted the importance of inter-agency coordination in protecting both lives and fragile ecosystems in remote and environmentally sensitive regions.

Senior forest officials stated that monitoring and containment efforts are ongoing, with a detailed assessment of forest loss to follow. The successful operation prevented the fire from spreading to nearby habitations, emphasizing the crucial role of joint military and civilian efforts in disaster management.

Forest fires in Northeast India are a growing ecological concern, with climate variability contributing to increased fire intensity. Studies indicate that nearly 80% of annual incidents occur between March and April, with previous years such as 2006, 2007, 2009, and 2010 witnessing particularly severe outbreaks. The Lohit Valley operation underscores the preparedness and professionalism of India’s armed forces in responding to natural emergencies in challenging terrains.

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