Nagaland: Fresh Fire Erupts at Mt. Shüho Despite Ongoing Containment Efforts

KOHIMA: A fresh fire broke out at Mt. Shüho (Shüho Peak) on Friday morning, despite ongoing efforts to contain the blaze that erupted on February 13 in the Kipfüzha area under Kigwema village in Kohima district.

Kigwema Youth Organisation (KYO) president Neiphrezo Thorie told the media that the fire was initially believed to have been doused following pre-dawn rain on Friday.

However, by around 9 to 9:30 am, smoke was seen emanating from the peak, and the fire quickly spread to the surrounding areas. "By the time the volunteers reached the spot, the fire had already affected the adjoining areas," Thorie stated.

According to him, the fresh fire likely reignited after the morning sun dried out woods that were not fully drenched by the rain. The flames were further aggravated by dry winds, making containment efforts more challenging.

Around 40 to 50 volunteers were actively involved in fighting the fire on Friday. A team from the Fire Station Kohima, the Forest Department, and the Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) assisted the KYO in their efforts. Volunteers used firebreaks and water to contain the blaze, while some were seen clearing paths of about 5 to 10 feet gaps to prevent further spread.

By Friday evening, smoke was still visible in some pockets of the mountain, and efforts to douse the fire were ongoing. "The volunteers are trying their best to contain the fire, but it is yet to be completely doused," Thorie said. He also informed that government departments had provided the volunteers with fire safety gear, including jackets, caps, and cane sticks.

Regarding the cause of the fire, the youth leader stated that an investigation would be conducted once the fire is fully extinguished. However, preliminary observations suggest that the fire might have originated from the base of Mt. Shüho, as indicated by initial photographs taken when the flames were first noticed.

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