The forest fire at Hebji in Chapcha, Chukha has destroyed more than 1,500 acres of forestland as of yesterday evening, forest officials in Chapcha said.

Hebji is between Paga and Tshamdra villages of Chapcha. It is located above the Damchu bypass on the Phuentsholing – Thimphu highway.

The forest fire that started on the afternoon of December 13 could not be contained and efforts to contain it will continue for the third day today.

Chapcha’s forest ranger, Kezang Jurmey, said the fire has spread further up the mountains and that it was difficult to contain.

“Despite of our best effort, we could not contain the fire,” the ranger said.

As of yesterday, no damages and harm to properties, people, and domestic animals were reported.

More than 100 people, comprising Dessups, gewog officials, and villagers are battling the fire. Kezang Jurmey said there is a team each to contain the fire at Tshamdra village and Paga village.

Staff reporter