A major fire that erupted in the Chandpai range of the Sundarbans East Zone on Saturday afternoon was successfully contained after over 29 hours of continuous efforts by multiple emergency teams.
Mongla Station Officer Md Kaymuzzaman from the Fire Service confirmed that the coordinated efforts of the Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Forest Guard, and Fire Service brought the blaze under control by around 8 pm Sunday, May 5.
"The fire is under control but will remain under observation," he stated, highlighting the caution with which the situation is being handled.
The incident drew immediate attention from senior officials, including Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) Md Amir Hossain Chowdhury, Deputy Commissioner of Bagerhat Mohammad Khalid Hossain, and Superintendent of Police Abul Hasnat Khan, who visited the site on Sunday afternoon.
Post-visit, CCF Chowdhury briefed the media, estimating that approximately 5 acres of forest land had been affected. Water has been sprayed over the affected area, and starting Monday morning, drones will be used to ensure no hidden fires remain, he explained.
Furthermore, Chowdhury announced the formation of a high-level committee to assess the fire's impact on the Sundarbans' biodiversity. The committee is expected to deliver a report with recommendations within the next ten working days.
The response underscores the ongoing commitment to preserving the unique ecosystem of the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich biodiversity and as a habitat for the endangered Bengal tiger.
Forest Department deploys teams and drones to monitor Sundarbans fire situation
In response to the fire in the Sundarbans that broke out on Saturday afternoon, the Forest Department has mobilized 50 personnel to closely monitor the area.
Mihir Kumar Doe, forest conservator of the Khulna region, affirmed that although the fire is under control, vigilant monitoring will continue for an additional two days.
Early Monday morning, emerging smoke was detected in several locations, and promptly extinguished through immediate water deployment.
A specialized three-member committee has been initiated by the Forest Department to probe the origins and scope of the blaze.
The committee is currently examining the site and gathering crucial data, Doe stated. The findings of the investigation will ascertain the fire's cause and the full extent of environmental damage.
Md Amir Hossain Chowdhury, Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF), announced the formation of a high-level committee scheduled to convene this afternoon.
The panel will be tasked with evaluating the fire's effects on the region's biodiversity and is expected to submit a detailed report with actionable recommendations within the next ten working days.
Based on the findings of this comprehensive assessment, necessary measures will be implemented to safeguard the Sundarbans' natural heritage, Chowdhury assured.
