Forest fires continue to rage across several parts of Chamoli, with flames spreading from one range to another since Monday. Thick smoke has covered large areas, causing breathing problems and eye irritation among residents.
On Holi, forests in Narayanbagad, Jakh-Kadakot, Bedgaon, Manur, Talasera and Tentuda burned throughout the day. Fresh reports of fire also emerged from Sunbhi and Bhatiyana in northern Kadakot Patti. In some places, the flames are moving closer to habitation areas, raising concerns among villagers.
In Kandara village under Kapiri Patti block, forest wealth has suffered heavy damage due to the blaze. Former village head Kusum Kandari and Padmendra Kandari said the forests have been burning for the past two days and the situation is worsening. Near Adibadri, forest areas continued to burn for the second consecutive day, while women in Bartoli village were seen actively trying to control the fire.
Villagers have questioned the effectiveness of the Forest Department’s fire safety campaigns, stating that despite awareness drives, proper ground arrangements appear lacking. The fires have also disrupted daily life, making it difficult for rural families to collect fodder and forest produce for livestock. Residents have demanded immediate intervention from the administration and stricter monitoring by forest guards and village forest councils.
Social worker Vijayesh Navani said that continuous smoke over the past two days has created serious problems for asthma and respiratory patients. He urged the government to take prompt action and direct the Forest Department to control the blaze.
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Forest Range Officer Akhilesh Bhatt said departmental staff are being dispatched to Kandara and other affected areas to contain the fire. Authorities are monitoring the situation as efforts continue to bring the flames under control.
