A fire destroyed more than 50 square kilometres of blue pine forests surrounding Damchu, about seven kilometres towards Chukha, in Bhutan.
Abetted by heavy winds, smoke that had wafted from the fire hung over the valley as far as Thimpu town, creating poor visibility.The blaze could not be put out quickly as "the difficult terrain and steep, rocky cliffs made firefighting an uphill task". Motorists were being warned of falling boulders along the area.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.