A forest fire that started around 1:40pm at Kuengachholing below Sangachhoekhor in Paro razed about 40 acres of forest yesterday. The fire was contained at around 6 pm.

According to a source, the fire was suspected to have started from an apple orchard.

Paro’s chief forestry officer, Lhendup Tharchen, said two helicopters from Bhutan Helicopter Services were of great help for timely intervention. “The helicopters arrived at the right time. Otherwise, it will be difficult to contain the fire.” 

He said that around 400 people, including volunteers from dzongkhag led by Paro dzongdag, foresters, armed forces (Royal Bhutan Police and Royal Bhutan Army), locals, students, desuups and Thimphu fire brigade helped in containing the fire. “Collective coordination played a key role in containing the fire.”

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