33.34 ha forest land destroyed in 24 hours, IAF, Army called to control Nainital forest fire

As the forest fire in Nanital continues to rage for 36 hours, The Indian Air Force and Army's help has been called in.

On Friday, the fire took a severe turn as the flames goes reached the High Court Colony in Nainital. The forest fire has destroyed 33.34 hectares of forest land in past 24 hours, as well as 31 new incidents of forest fires were reported.

IAF helicopters have been pressed in to douse off the flames. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said the fire would be brought under countrol very soon. “The Army is also being asked for help in this regard and the fire is being extinguished through helicopters. Today, I will also hold a meeting with the officials in Haldwani regarding the issue of forest fires,” the CM said.

Reportedly, three men have been arrested and sent to jail for allegedly starting a fire Jakhola and Rudraprayag areas.

The fire started in the forest near Nainital district headquarters and spread to the High Court Colony. The fire also affected traffic movement in the area. The district administration banned boating in the famous Nainital lake in view of the fire.