The Aryavarth Express
Agency (Uttarakhand): In a significant development, authorities in Uttarakhand have detained four people accused of igniting a forest fire in the Gangolihat range within Pithoragarh district. The individuals, identified as Piyush Singh, Ayush Singh, Rahul Singh, and Ankit, were reported by the local Sarpanch of Jakhani Upreti and Bhandari villages to have initiated the blaze on May 3.
Following the accusations, an FIR was registered against the suspects, and they are currently facing legal proceedings under the provisions of the Forest Act. This arrest comes as Uttarakhand grapples with ongoing forest fires that pose a significant threat to both wildlife and the environment.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reaffirmed the state’s dedication to managing the fires effectively, noting the involvement of the Indian Army in the firefighting efforts. “We are confronting a major challenge, but are actively exploring all possible measures to control the fire,” Dhami stated. He also stressed the commitment to taking stern action against those found responsible for the fires.
The Chief Minister has canceled his scheduled engagements to focus on the crisis, planning to visit affected areas in Dehradun and convene a meeting at the Secretariat to review the state’s firefighting strategies. This meeting will also cover the preparations for the upcoming monsoon and ensure adequate drinking water supplies.
In addition, the Indian Air Force has been actively involved, utilizing Mi17 V5 helicopters equipped with Bambi buckets to drop over 4500 liters of water on the fires, especially in the Pauri Garhwal sector, in close coordination with the state government. This aerial support has significantly aided ground crews in containing the fires more efficiently.
Furthermore, during his upcoming review session, Chief Minister Dhami will also examine the arrangements for the Char Dham Yatra, focusing on ensuring safe and smooth travel for pilgrims, with particular attention to key sites like Shri Kedarnath and Rudraprayag.