Mongla, Mar 23 (V7N)– Firefighters are struggling to contain a forest fire in Gulishakhali, Sundarbans, due to a severe lack of water. They are now relying on the high tide expected at night to pump water into the fire lines and spray the affected forest area.

While the fire in Kalamteji, which began on Saturday, has been brought under control by Sunday afternoon, the Gulishakhali fire remains a significant challenge.

"Fire lines have been cut around the fire in Gulishakhali in the Sundarbans. There is no water anywhere around. So the forest department firefighters and fire service members are waiting for the tide. When the tide comes in at night, water will be poured into the fire lines. And water will be sprayed in the forest area," a forest official reported.

Chandpai Range Assistant Conservator of Forests Dipan Chandra Das explained the strategy: "We have cut the fire line, but there is a water shortage. We have to wait until the night until the tide comes."

He also confirmed the successful containment of the Kalamteji fire, stating, "The fire that broke out in Kalamteji on Saturday was completely brought under control by Sunday afternoon. The fire has been extinguished, and the situation is being monitored as smoke is seen in one or two places."

However, he noted that the Gulishakhali fire is proving more difficult to manage, with higher radiation levels compared to Kalamteji.

"However, it will take more time to know and report the extent of the fire in Gulishakhali," Das said.

The reliance on the tidal water highlights the challenges of firefighting in the Sundarbans' unique ecosystem, where water sources are often limited and dependent on tidal patterns.

The incidents underscore the ongoing threat of fires to the Sundarbans' fragile environment and the difficulties faced by those attempting to protect it.

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