Khotang, April 14

The wildfire, which had spread since last Thursday in two community forests in Khotang district is yet to be brought under control.

The wildfire had spread from Alanchi Diplu Community Forest of Barahapokhari VDC and Damberkhu Community Forest of Damberkhu Shivalaya VDC almost a week ago.

Houses belonging to Yam Kumar Rai, Yubrai Nepali, Din Bahadur Nepali, Gam Bahadur Nepali, Bhim Bahadur Royala, Bum Bahadur Nepali of Damberkhu VDC are at high risk as the wildfire is about to reach to their settlements.

Meanwhile, Chairman Nirpa Bahadur Chaulagain of Community Forest Consumers Committee said that locals are trying very hard to bring the wildfire under control.

He said locals had informed the Area Police Office and Armed Police Force Base Camp, Chisapani for help, but security personnel are yet to reach the site.

The fire has also spread to neighbouring Sawakatahare VDC-based Sallesawa Community Forest. Here too, the fire has not been brought under control due to the wind.

It is said that some cowherds and fodder collectors knowingly caused the fire in the community forests.

According to District Forest Office, Khotang, wildfire destroyed more than a dozen community forests last year.