A massive wildfire continues to rage across Mount Iso, the highest mountain in Manipur, with firefighting agencies struggling to bring the blaze under control. Teams from the NDRF, SDRF, Police, Fire Brigade, and civil society organisations are engaged in containment efforts.

The state government has been requested to deploy helicopter services for aerial firefighting. There are unconfirmed reports that a few people may be trapped inside the affected area.

The fire reportedly broke out on Wednesday morning from the southern side of Dziiko (Dzükou) Valley and spread towards Mount Iso. It is reported that, in neighbouring Nagaland, a special response team was formed, and more than 30 trekkers were safely evacuated.

Environmentalists have warned that if the fire continues during the winter season, it could cause long-term and irreversible damage to the fragile mountain ecosystem.

Meanwhile, the Mao Council has expressed deep anguish over the fire at Dziiko and the Mount Esii (Iso) range, calling it a grave environmental tragedy. In a press statement issued by its Media Cell, the Council strongly condemned the reckless and irresponsible act that led to the inferno, stating that rich flora, fauna, and the scenic beauty of the area have been reduced to ashes.

The Mao Council urged the government and concerned authorities to take immediate and effective measures to douse the fire and prevent further spread. It also demanded that those responsible be identified and prosecuted under the law, while reaffirming its commitment to the protection and preservation of nature.