Forest Inferno Threatens Arunachal Pradesh's Vital Military Installations

A massive forest fire has flared up near the Sigar military station in Arunachal Pradesh's East Siang district, posing a significant threat to crucial defense installations in the vicinity, officials reported on Sunday.

Despite there being no reported casualties, the rapidly spreading blaze has prompted an all-hands-on-deck response from the district administration and the Indian Army. However, efforts to suppress the fire are being hindered by the region's challenging terrain and dense vegetation.

In response to ground teams encountering difficulties, the state government has commissioned an Indian Air Force helicopter to assist with aerial firefighting operations. The helicopter commenced its mission on Sunday, utilizing water from the Siang River to combat the fire, although operations were temporarily halted due to operational challenges and are slated to continue on Monday morning. Firefighters on the ground persist in their battle against the blaze.