Kasauli: As Himachal Pradesh continues to reel under extreme heat, massive forest fires have engulfed several areas. In Kasauli, a major tourist destination in Solan district, the Army, Air Force, and local administration had to battle for over 18 hours to bring a fierce forest fire under control.
After a prolonged operation carried out through dense forests, steep hills, and difficult terrain, authorities finally managed to largely contain the fire in the Gilbert Trail and Upper Mall areas. The firefighting effort was conducted simultaneously from the ground and the air. The flames were reportedly visible as far as Chandigarh.
The fire broke out around 3 pm on May 26 in the forests located on the western slopes of Kasauli. Due to strong winds and dry forest conditions, the flames spread rapidly. As the situation turned critical, the Indian Army’s Kasauli Brigade immediately swung into action and launched relief and rescue operations.
The Army coordinated closely with the local administration, Chandigarh administration, and the Indian Air Force for the joint mission.
Throughout the night, Army personnel remained deployed deep inside the forests. Troops reached inaccessible areas and created firebreaks to stop the flames from spreading further while isolating sensitive sections.
Meanwhile, Indian Air Force helicopters also joined the operation. The helicopters repeatedly collected water from Chandigarh’s Sukhna Lake and carried out aerial water drops using the “Bambi Bucket” technique. The combined air and ground operation helped authorities gain control over the fire in major affected areas, including Gilbert Hill and Upper Mall.
According to the Army, some small hotspots still remain in a few inaccessible locations, and operations are continuing to completely extinguish the fire. Personnel are maintaining constant surveillance to prevent the flames from reigniting.
Officials said no civilians, rescue workers, or military personnel were injured during the entire operation. All troops and equipment involved in the mission are reported to be safe.
Meanwhile, Western Command Army Commander Pushpendra Singh visited the affected area to review the situation. He assessed the ongoing operation on the ground and appreciated the efforts of soldiers working under difficult conditions. He also honoured military personnel engaged in the firefighting mission with appreciation certificates on the spot.
Forest fires are a recurring problem in Himachal Pradesh during the summer months, with large stretches of forest land turning to ashes every year.
