KAVREPALANCHOWK: The fire that began in the Mahabharat Community Forest community forest in the southern part of Kavrepalanchowk district on Tuesday afternoon remains uncontrolled, posing a significant threat to nearby forest areas and settlements.
The District Disaster Management Committee has decided to mobilize all available resources, including local agencies, security forces, and stakeholders, to combat the fire.
A public notice has been issued by Khanikhola Rural Municipality restricting domestic and foreign tourists from visiting the Narayansthan Temple and surrounding areas in Bechanchowk due to the fire risk.
The fire, which originated in Thamalekadanda of Khanikhola Rural Municipality-1, has spread dangerously close to areas such as Narayansthan, a tourist hotspot, and parts of Wards 1, 2, 3, and 5. The rural municipality chair, Bhagwan Adhikari, said all necessary precautions are being taken to prevent further damage.
Local authorities, the Nepal Army, and police have been actively involved in fire control efforts since Wednesday evening.
Chief District Officer Umesh Kumar Dhakal reported that security personnel are coordinating with locals to monitor and prevent the fire from advancing towards human settlements. Contingency plans for evacuation are in place if required.
The Mahabharat Community Forest, known for its biodiversity, valuable herbs, and wildlife, has been burning for three days. The fire is currently about four kilometers from the nearest human settlement in Bethanchowk Rural Municipality-6.
Krishna Bahadur Thapa, Chief of the Division Forest Office Dhulikhel, confirmed that a joint meeting with district administration, security agencies, and local forest user groups has been held to strategize fire control measures and identify those responsible for starting the fire. Legal action will be pursued against those found guilty.
Despite significant efforts, the fire remains uncontrolled, and additional manpower and equipment are being coordinated with the Ministry of Home Affairs to strengthen fire containment efforts.
No injuries to humans or animals have been reported so far, but locals are urging authorities to act swiftly to protect the forest, its wildlife, and nearby settlements. The situation remains critical as authorities work against time to bring the fire under control.
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