IAF bucket operations at Dzükou Valley disrupted by poor visibility as wildfire enters fifth day, with 70% contained.
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KOHIMA — Indian Air Force (IAF) bucket operations, which began on Friday to contain the Dzükou wildfire that entered its fifth day, were hampered by low visibility, affecting smooth operations.
SAYO president Zaseitsolie Beio told Eastern Mirror that the operations were called off after two sorties due to cloudy weather conditions.
Also read: Dzükou fire update: Trekking restricted, teams battle blaze
He said that around 70% of the wildfire has been contained, with no signs of fire in Mt. Tempü area and along the Jakhama route. The only area where the fire remains uncontrolled is below the helipad.
Beio added that bucket operations will resume on Saturday.
Meanwhile, the surveillance team—led by SDO Civil Jakhama Vineikho and Woenthung, District Commandant HG & CD, along with SDRF personnel, police, DBs, drone pilots, NSDMA operators and SAYO volunteers—continues to monitor the situation.
In an update, the Kohima district administration stated that the “main Dzükou Valley” remains untouched by the fire so far, and that the blaze is spreading slowly, remaining concentrated primarily around the Dzükou helipad area.
The administration said that with continued active intervention by IAF helicopters, containment is expected to be achieved, and operations will continue on Saturday.
It also informed that the surveillance team has reported back from the fire incident site, following which a review meeting was held at the deputy commissioner’s residence to take stock of the situation. The surveillance team will continue to monitor and assess the situation from the location.