IAF deploys Mi 17 choppers to put out massive fire in Sariska Tiger Reserve

JAIPUR: A fire that broke out in the Sariska Tiger Reserve in Rajasthan’s Alwar district on Sunday evening has spread to around 10sqkm, forcing the authorities to seek assistance from the army to put out the fire.

The fire started on Sunday evening and by Monday, appeared to have become uncontrollable, district forest officer, Sudharshan Sharma said on Tuesday. Then we sought help from the armed forces.

A defence official said the Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed two Mi 17 V5 helicopters for Bambi Bucket ops in response to a request from Alwar district administration for assistance.

Sharma said the fire has spread to an area of 10sqkm area and all efforts are made to control the fire. “The area which is most affected is at a height which is making it difficult to take any fire equipment. At present efforts, douse are done manually and through water sprinkled by choppers,” the forest officer said.