Assam: Major fire engulfs Laisong Reserved Forest in Dima Hasao, youth seriously injured

A massive fire that broke out in the Laisong Reserved Forest in Assam’s hill district of Dima Hasao district on Sunday, February 15, has triggered alarm among residents and authorities, with fears of ecological damage and possible wildlife loss. The blaze, suspected to have been caused during welding work linked to a highway construction project, remained uncontrolled at the time of filing this report.

The incident occurred within the Laisong Reserved Forest area under Mahur Police Station, managed by the Laisong Village Council. According to preliminary reports, the fire started around 11 am while welding operations were underway on a hillside as part of a four-lane National Highway project under the Bharatmala initiative, connecting Mahur in Assam to Tamenglong in Manipur.

The construction work is being executed by Anusha Private Limited, while slope stabilisation and landslide protection activities were being carried out by Gripol Company. Sparks generated during the welding process allegedly ignited dry vegetation on the hill, causing flames to rapidly spread into the surrounding forest area.

Amid efforts to douse the flames, a youth identified as Gaistgam Gengmai reportedly fell from the hillside and sustained serious injuries. He was first rushed to Haflong Civil Hospital but was later referred to Guwahati for advanced medical treatment due to the severity of his condition.

District administration officials, construction workers, and local residents have been engaged in firefighting efforts. However, the blaze had not been fully brought under control, raising concerns about potential damage to forest resources and wildlife habitats.

Authorities have yet to confirm any casualties among wild animals. An official assessment of the environmental impact is awaited as firefighting operations continue.