Bhubaneswar: A massive fire raged for nearly three days in the northern sector of Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and a Ramsar site of international importance, destroying over five hectares of reed swamp before being fully doused early Saturday morning.
The blaze, which broke out on Thursday night in patches of Nala grass (a tall reed species scientifically known as Phragmites) between Bhusandpur and Balipatapur channel under the Tangi range, spread rapidly due to dry summer conditions, low water levels, and high winds.
Officials from the Chilika Wildlife Division suspect the fire was man-made, possibly started by boatmen clearing pathways for navigation or fishing, or by miscreants. “The fire was brought fully under control after two-and-half days of continuous efforts by spraying water from the lagoon through pipes. We suspect it to be man made as the area witnesses continuous movement of boats for fishing,” Chilika wildlife division DFO Amlan Nayak was quoted as saying.
Even as 20–25 staff members, two forest fire squads including a Nala grass fire squad, and fire services personnel from Tangi and Kanasa worked tirelessly to douse the flames, two drones were deployed to map the affected area and monitor the spread.
Nayak further stated that the uppermost layers of the Nala grass had become highly combustible in the scorching heat, with water levels in the lake dropping significantly. The grass, which can grow up to 15 feet tall, posed additional challenges, as did the shallow, muddy waters and dense water hyacinth that hindered access.
Drone patrolling and surveillance have been intensified in the region to prevent any further flare-ups, he added.
Chilika’s northern sector is a critical habitat for residential and migratory birds, as well as the elusive fishing cat. Nala grass patches serve as nesting sites for birds, and officials believe the animals and birds likely relocated to safer areas upon detecting the fire. No major casualties to wildlife were immediately reported, though the incident has raised serious concerns about the vulnerability of the lake’s eco-sensitive biodiversity during the dry summer months.
