Smoke rises from the Dzükou Valley in Kohima district on December 12, 2025, as another wildfire engulfs the scenic landscape. The State Forest Department informs that Nagaland recorded 188 forest fire incidents in 2025, with Kohima accounting for nearly half at 91 cases. (Morung/Nouneseme Martin Sophi File Photo)
• State records 188 forest fire incidents in 2025, highest in Kohima district.
• Reiterates total ban on forest fires
Kohima, January 22 (MExN): The Directorate of Fire & Emergency Services (F&ES), Nagaland, has urged the public and Village Councils (VCs) to take proactive measures to prevent rampant forest burning during the ongoing dry and windy season.
The department made the appeal while expressing serious concern that Nagaland has recorded 188 forest fire incidents so far in 2025, with Kohima district alone accounting for 91 cases, and noting that such incidents rise sharply during the dry season.
Despite sustained efforts by F&ES personnel, village volunteers, and support from the District Administration and Police, indiscriminate forest fires, often caused by hunters, campers, miscreants and others, continue to occur.
These efforts have largely focused on preventing fires from spreading to residential areas, added.
The F&ES department reiterated that it is unable to respond to all forest fire incidents unless they pose an immediate threat to human settlements.
It further reminded that the State Government, District Administration and Forest Department have repeatedly issued notifications imposing a total ban on forest fires, citing their severe impact on ecological balance.
In view of the growing threat, the Fire Department appealed to the public and Village Councils to actively prevent such practices and take action against those responsible to deter further incidents, according to a report from the State DIPR.
