Manipur: Dzukou–Mt Esii wildfire rages for second day, vast forest tracts destroyed

A massive wildfire continues to devastate the Dzukou and Mt Esii ranges for the second consecutive day, consuming large stretches of forest and threatening local ecosystems. 

Emergency teams and volunteers launched renewed operations early on the morning of January 29, reaching the affected areas around 6:00 a.m. to battle the flames.

The firefighting operation involves a joint team including Manipur Police from Mao, Tadubi, and Maram, the Tadubi Fire Brigade, Forest Department personnel, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Song Song SDO, Song Song Village Authority, and over 150 local volunteers from Mao villages.

Officials said the fire, which reportedly began on the southern side of Dzukou, has spread to the Mt Esii range, destroying significant forest cover. Despite steep cliffs and dangerous terrain, 30–40 volunteers climbed Mt Esii to directly fight the flames. 

The Indian Air Force has assessed the situation, with a helicopter on standby in case of escalation.

A Nagaland official from Jakhama told India Today NE that the wildfire along the Manipur–Nagaland border has been brought under control, with local residents actively assisting in containing the remaining flames.

While largely contained, the blaze is suspected to be man-made, raising questions about negligence and accountability. Experts warn that forest fires like this destroy wildlife habitats, damage flora, affect water sources, and heighten the risk of long-term water scarcity in nearby villages.

Local residents and leaders have appealed to the government for stronger preventive measures, including stricter enforcement of wildfire regulations, bans on open burning, tougher penalties for violators, deployment of trained forest guards, enhanced monitoring systems, and ongoing community awareness campaigns.