A forest fire in Uttarakhand has escalated dramatically, with flames encroaching upon Nainital’s High Court Colony, signaling a dire situation for local residents. The Nainital administration swiftly mobilized forest department employees and army personnel to combat the blaze, indicating the gravity of the situation. Helicopters may be enlisted to bolster firefighting efforts if the situation spirals beyond control.

The fire initially posed a significant threat to High Court Colony, nestled in the Pines area, and caused disruptions to local traffic. Efforts to contain the fire commenced promptly, with residents and authorities alike endeavoring to protect homes and livelihoods from the advancing inferno.

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In addition to the imminent danger to civilian areas, concerns have arisen regarding the potential impact on sensitive military installations in proximity to the affected regions. As a precautionary measure, boating activities on Naini Lake have been suspended to prevent any inadvertent exacerbation of the situation.

The Nainital administration has deployed a contingent of 42 personnel, comprising forest rangers and other responders, to quell the blaze and prevent further escalation. The collective efforts of these individuals underscore the gravity of the situation and the necessity for a coordinated response to mitigate the impact of the forest fire.

Meanwhile, reports from Uttarakhand’s forest department paint a grim picture of the widespread devastation caused by forest fires across the state. Over the past 24 hours alone, 26 incidents were reported in the Kumaon region and five in Garhwal, affecting a substantial expanse of forest land.

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The cumulative toll of such fires since November 1 is staggering, with 575 incidents recorded, leading to the destruction of nearly 690 hectares of forest area and incurring significant financial losses. In response to the deliberate ignition of fires, authorities have taken decisive action, including the arrest of individuals responsible for such acts. Among those apprehended is Naresh Bhatt, accused of setting fires in the forest to facilitate grazing for his sheep.