Fire breaks out in Mt Abu forests

Fresh fire broke out at two spots in the forest area of Mount Abu on Sunday where two Indian Air Force (IAF) helicopters have been making sorties to douse the massive blaze.

The fire broke out on Friday morning in Mount Abu close to the famous sunset and honeymoon point and spread quickly due to dry grass and the wind. “The fire was almost put out, but then there were cases of fires at two more spots. Two IAF helicopters have been making sorties and the fire should be extinguished by Sunday evening,” Sirohi district collector Abhimanyu Kumar said.

“The two MI-17V5 helicopters resumed Bambi Bucket operations on Sunday morning with information on fresh fires in the area between Abu top and Abu road. The two aircraft have undertaken 19 shuttles on Sunday (as of 1.30 pm) delivering more than 53,000 litres of water since morning. The fire around Arna village was reported to be dangerously close to the inhabited area and is being doused on priority,” a press release issued by defence spokesperson stated.

“Since April 14, a total of 100 shuttles have so far delivered more than 2,60,000 litres of water,” the release added.

Thousands of tourists from within Rajasthan, the neighbouring state of Gujarat and other parts of the country visit Mount Abu during summers.

Tourists have been asked to avoid sunset point and honeymoon point till the flames are completely put out. Also boating at Nakki lake has been restricted as helicopters are fetching water from the lake, which is located in the middle of the town, nestled between the hills.

Officials said that reason behind the fire is not clear but bamboo trees in the forest sometimes cause a wildfire. Also when the locals fetch honey, they light a fire which can also lead to the forest fires.

Located 1722 meters above the sea level and situated amidst the lush green hills on the highest point of the Aravalli Range, Mount Abu is home to lakes, waterfalls, green forests and many religious monuments.