A wildfire in the Gaurishankar Conservation Area, which has been raging since January 28, has finally been brought under control after nine days of intense efforts. The fire, which started in the higher reaches of Gaurishankar Rural Municipality-7, particularly in the mountainous region above Sikpaswor, had spread over 600 hectares, including areas crucial for the habitat of the red panda.

According to Tulsi Prasad Dahal, head of the conservation area, the fire was initially difficult to contain, but a team of 70 people, which included personnel from the Nepali Army, Nepal Police, and the Armed Police Force, successfully extinguished the flames on Thursday. The team had to be mobilised from all directions, given the challenging terrain.

The fire has caused extensive damage to the forest, including the complete destruction of the Himalayan bamboo forest, a crucial area for wildlife. Dahal said that the fire had blocked views of the Gaurishankar Himal and the Rolwaling mountain range, which are now visible again as the smoke has cleared.

Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the fire. Dahal confirmed that it is believed to have been caused by human negligence. Authorities are actively searching for those responsible.

Dahal stressed that with unusual climatic conditions, the region is increasingly vulnerable to such fires, which are posing a serious risk to both the environment and its wildlife.