Uttarakhand Seeks IAF’s Help as Forest Fire Rages in Valley of Flowers National Park for Fifth Day

Dehradun: The Uttarakhand government has sought assistance from the Indian Air Force (IAF) as a massive forest fire continued to rage for the fifth consecutive day in the ecologically sensitive Valley of Flowers National Park in Chamoli district.

Officials said the blaze, which began earlier this week amid dry weather and gusty winds, has spread across large stretches of alpine meadows and forested slopes within the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ground teams from the forest department, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local volunteers have been battling the flames round-the-clock, but steep terrain and limited accessibility have hampered firefighting efforts.

With the fire advancing towards higher ridgelines and remote patches, the state government requested aerial support from the Indian Air Force to carry out water bombing operations. Authorities said helicopters equipped with Bambi buckets are likely to be deployed to douse flames in areas inaccessible by foot.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami reviewed the situation and directed officials to prioritise containment efforts to prevent further ecological damage. He also instructed district authorities to ensure the safety of nearby villages and trekking routes.

Forest officials expressed concern over the potential impact on the park’s unique biodiversity. The Valley of Flowers, known for its rare alpine flora and endangered species, witnesses peak blooming during the monsoon months. Experts warned that prolonged fire exposure could damage seed banks, soil fertility, and fragile habitats.

Preliminary assessments suggest that dry undergrowth and rising temperatures may have contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. While no casualties have been reported so far, smoke has engulfed parts of the valley, reducing visibility and affecting air quality in surrounding areas.

The administration has temporarily restricted tourist movement and trekking activities in the affected zones as a precaution. A detailed damage assessment will be carried out once the fire is brought under control.

Authorities said coordinated efforts between the forest department, disaster management teams, and the Indian Air Force are underway to contain the blaze at the earliest and minimise long-term ecological consequences.