Nepalgunj: A devastating forest fire has swept through an extensive area of 5,133 hectares, including various community forests and the Chakla forest, in Banke district.

District Forest Office officials disclosed that a staggering 76 community forests and one Chakla Forest have been ravaged by the inferno, casting a shadow over nearly 100 community forests in the region.

Birendra Rokka, Assistant Forest Officer and Information Officer, conveyed that concerted efforts, including the deployment of fire-fighting vehicles and eight firefighters, have managed to bring the blaze under control across most affected areas. Additionally, preventive measures such as the construction of 30 km of fire lines in the Chakla forest and 20 km in community forests have been undertaken.

The fire outbreak, attributed to the prolonged dry spell devoid of rainfall and human negligence, has inflicted a grave toll on wildlife, claiming the lives of rabbits, snakes, and numerous bird species.

Meanwhile, Banke district has witnessed 105 fire incidents at various local levels, resulting in one fatality, six injuries, and the tragic loss of 104 cattle. Assistant Chief District Officer Jorasingh Majhi lamented the widespread destruction, citing damages totaling Rs 17.7 million in areas including Narainapur, Raptisonari, Janaki, and Nepalgunj.

As authorities continue their efforts to contain the flames and assess the full extent of the damage, the urgent need for heightened vigilance and preventative measures against such calamities remains paramount in safeguarding Nepal's precious natural resources.