Our Correspondent
Kohima | November 27
A major fire catastrophe was averted today due to the brave and timely intervention of Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO) volunteers.
The Dzükou fire which started on November 26 morning was successfully contained today. Confirming the news, SAYO President Zakieleto Tsükrü informed that around 60 volunteers were pressed into action for containing the fire starting from 7:00am till 4.30 pm. The volunteers had to trek pass difficult terrains to reach the burning areas of the valley.
Given the challenges of carrying water to the affected area, the volunteers were compelled to fight the fire at close distance with the help of sackcloths and using machetes (daos) to contain the fire. Meanwhile, SAYO officials informed that the persons responsible for starting the fire were trekkers who were camped at the South West area of Dzükou valley.
According to sources the fire reportedly spread from the campsite when the trekkers left a fire for cooking unattended while they were away to click pictures. SAYO officials informed that the persons involved were handed over to the concerned authorities as they have reportedly admitted to their offences.
The defaulters were reportedly trekkers from Manipur, who the SAYO alleged were “illegal encroachers/trekkers” led by guides under the banner of Manipur Mountaineer Trekkers Association (MMTA).
The SAYO asked the authorities to take appropriate action at the earliest and book the culprits as per the law, “failing which the SAYO will take its own course of action.” It also cautioned people against entering the valley without valid permits.
It meanwhile extended gratitude to the government agencies and authorities who rendered their services.
