A massive wildfire has engulfed forest land under Khonoma village, west of Kohima, causing extensive damage to virgin forest areas and triggering serious concerns for the ecologically sensitive Dzukou Valley, officials said.

According to authorities and village leaders, the fire was accidentally ignited by four local trekkers who had lit a campfire in a valley area. The flames reportedly spiralled out of control after the trekkers left the spot to fetch water. As the fire spread rapidly, the trekkers were trapped and later rescued on Saturday by volunteers of the Khonoma Youth Organisation (KYO). Officials confirmed that the individuals have since confessed to starting the fire.

Aerial survey reveals extensive damage

An aerial survey conducted by government agencies has revealed widespread destruction across large stretches of untouched forest. Officials said the blaze has spread in multiple directions. The aerial assessment was undertaken after drone surveillance proved unfeasible due to the difficult terrain and limited accessibility of the affected areas.

Volunteers from the KYO, along with personnel from the police, fire and emergency services, forest department, and disaster management agencies, continue to battle the fire on the ground. Officials warned that although the blaze is moving slowly, it is advancing steadily and remains difficult to contain due to dry vegetation and rugged terrain.

Fire spreading towards border areas

According to government officials, the fire is spreading towards Hophera Thi near the Jotsoma–Khonoma border, raising the risk of further expansion into remote and hard-to-reach areas. Authorities fear that containment efforts may become increasingly challenging if the fire advances deeper into these regions.

Dzukou Valley, renowned for its rare flora, alpine meadows, and popular trekking routes, remains highly vulnerable amid prevailing dry weather conditions. As a precautionary measure, the local administration has imposed a complete ban on trekking in the area until the fire is fully brought under control.

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