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High-Altitude Wildfire Breaks Out in East Sikkim’s Pangolakha Sanctuary
Forest fires have been raging for two days in Kupup village, East Sikkim, near the China border. The presence of landmines in the Doklam region is making extinguishing the fire extremely difficult. In dry weather without snowfall, the fire has spread at an altitude of 13,000 feet, affecting the Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary.
There is a forest fire that has been burning continuously over the last two days in Kupup village, East Sikkim, near the China border. This place is near the Doklam area, which consists of landmine areas for security purposes. It is a matter of relief that no one has been killed or any buildings damaged so far.
Wildfires are quite common in Sikkim during winters, but at such an altitude, it is extremely rare. Kupup is situated at an altitude of around 13,000 feet, where mostly shrubs are found, replacing trees. January normally experiences a thick layer of snow, but this year, the Himalayan region has been devoid of snow, resulting in extremely dry conditions.
This area is part of the Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary, a natural habitat for snow leopards, red pandas, and numerous rare flora and fauna. The fire is also impacting this protected wildlife sanctuary.
So far, it is estimated that approximately 11 to 12 hectares have been engulfed by the fire. The fire has spread to the left side of the valley and is now moving toward the right side, an army-restricted area. This has made the situation even more sensitive.
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Earlier on Sunday, a forest fire broke out in the Thambi Viewpoint area near the Silk Road, which was extinguished by the forest department team in time. However, the fire in Kupup is considered much larger and more dangerous. According to the Forest Department, bushes, dry grass, and even the area near the local golf course are being engulfed by the fire.
Wildlife Conservator Uday Gurung stated that the area is extremely dry due to a prolonged absence of rain or snowfall, which is why the fire is spreading rapidly. The presence of landmines is significantly hindering firefighting and rescue operations.
Forest department teams, army personnel, and local residents are working together to extinguish the fire. A full assessment of the damage has not yet been made, as the fire remains under control. The situation remains precarious, but relief and control efforts are ongoing.
