Forest Fire Near Uttarakhand's Valley of Flowers Continues but Remains Contained

A forest fire near Uttarakhand's Valley of Flowers in Chamoli district has been burning since January 9, confined to surface-level pockets within Nanda Devi National Park. Officials report the fire is contained, with natural firebreaks like the Lakshman Ganga and Pushpawati rivers limiting its spread. Difficult terrain and dry winter conditions with low precipitation have hindered firefighting efforts. Authorities have conducted aerial surveys and ruled out immediate need for central assistance, while monitoring conditions closely.