IAF and Ground Teams Control Massive Forest Fire in Kasauli, Himachal Pradesh
Massive forest fire in Shimla's Kasauli doused by IAF, ground teams
Image: Asianet Newsable
A forest fire in Kasauli Beat, Solan district, Himachal Pradesh, lasted over 27 hours before being controlled by ground teams and the Indian Air Force (IAF). The fire, which affected nearly 10 hectares, threatened local military installations and residential areas.
- 01The fire broke out on May 26 and was classified as a ground fire, spreading across nearly 10 hectares.
- 02The IAF deployed four Mi-17 V5 helicopters, conducting over 150 sorties and dropping 62,500 litres of water using Bambi buckets.
- 03A coordinated effort involved nine personnel from the State Forest Department and IAF pilots conducting night operations.
- 04The estimated financial loss due to the fire is approximately ₹67 lakh (roughly $8,000 USD), with figures subject to change post-monsoon.
- 05The operation highlights effective collaboration between the local administration and the IAF under civil aid protocols.
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A significant forest fire erupted in the Kasauli Beat area of Solan district, Himachal Pradesh, on May 26, lasting over 27 hours before being contained through a joint operation by ground teams and the Indian Air Force (IAF). The fire affected nearly 10 hectares of forest land and posed a threat to military installations and residential areas. The IAF mobilized four Mi-17 V5 helicopters, which conducted more than 150 sorties, dropping a total of 62,500 litres of water using a specialized 'Bambi Bucket' system. Ground teams faced challenges due to the difficult mountainous terrain, necessitating aerial support. The operation, which involved nine personnel from the State Forest Department, showcased effective coordination between multiple agencies. Preliminary damage assessments indicate a financial loss of approximately ₹67 lakh (roughly $8,000 USD), with potential adjustments expected as the forest regenerates after the monsoon season.
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The fire posed a significant threat to local military installations and residential areas, necessitating immediate firefighting measures.
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