Although there have been no recorded injuries, a major fire in Thimphu has destroyed four traditional residences and scorched over 1,000 acres of forest. The local people were unable to suppress the fire once it started. While one guy from each home stayed behind to help the police and forest officials manage the fire, women and children were moved to safer areas to protect their safety. On the scene, a group of Desuups, Royal Bhutan Police, forest authorities, and nearby villagers are attempting to stop the fire from becoming worse. Officials said they are unable to predict when the fire will be completely contained despite their best efforts. To put out the fire, the firefighters have been using earth and sparse water sources.
The problem has been made worse by the village’s water scarcity throughout the dry winter. Although the fire was contained, authorities caution that there is still a high risk. There is a chance that falling rubble and stones will start new flames. According to Gup Gyem Tshering, talks on ways to stop these kinds of events, such as putting trees in front of electric lines and poles, have already taken place. However, because so many trees were needed, the proposal was never carried out. According to the Department of Forest and Park Services, 24,856 acres of land burned as a consequence of 72 incidents.
