During the visit, Khonoma Youth representatives, SDRF, and other government agencies briefed the officials on the current situation. They informed that an inspection team had been sent on Monday and reported the presence of smoke in between burnt bushes, but no active flames were observed. The smoke was stated to be contained, with Khonoma Youth volunteers, SDRF, and Forest Department personnel present on site. IAF Helicopters were also deployed, operating with Bambi buckets to suppress and contain the smoke. It was further mentioned that western Dzükou has been closed temporarily as a precautionary measure.
The Khonoma Youth expressed gratitude for the support and assistance rendered by all stakeholders during the crisis. They highlighted that the rescue and response operations by volunteers were possible due to prior training initiatives undertaken by the Angami Youth Organisation (AYO) and conducted by the SDRF. The Adviser of the Khonoma Youth Organisation (KYO) also thanked the Deputy Commissioner, in his capacity as Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), for the successful coordination of the operation. He added that the government should be informed of this success story achieved under the leadership of the Deputy Commissioner.
A discussion was also held on whether to continue the operation. While the helicopter team from Kharagpur, along with youth volunteers and SDRF personnel, expressed confidence that the fire had been contained, it was decided that a team would trek again to Western Dzükou the following day to further assure the situation on the ground. Deputy Commissioner B. Henok Buchem expressed gratitude to God and to all those involved, and particularly applauded the spirit of human compassion shown by the team, especially the people of Khonoma.
Earlier in the day, Advisor NSDMA & NRE, Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe, Deputy Commissioner B. Henok Buchem, Nodal Officer Kohima, Thejangulie Zao and Assistant Manager Response & Communication NSDMA, Rendemo Shitio conducted an aerial survey of both the Western and Southern Dzükou areas using a helicopter to assess the overall fire situation.
(DPRO Kohima)
