Massive Forest Fire Breaks Out in Mangshila, North Sikkim: Collaborative Efforts Bring Blaze Under Control

KalimNews, February 21, 2026, Gangtok : A massive forest fire erupted in the forested area at Lower Jhushing under Mangshila–Tibuk GPU of Mangan District in North Sikkim, triggering an immediate and coordinated response from firefighting teams, local authorities, and volunteers. The relentless blaze demanded urgent intervention as fire personnel rushed to the spot to prevent the flames from spreading further and threatening nearby settlements.

By the morning of 20 February 2026, the fire was successfully brought under control, with no loss of life or damage to property. The joint efforts of the Indian Army and the District Administration were clearly evident throughout the firefighting operations.

The fire initially started on 17 February and was extinguished. However, it reignited on 19 February, intensifying concern among residents and authorities alike.

On February 20, 2026, the District Administration, led by DC Mangan Anant Jain, closely monitored the fire situation in the Mangshila, Jhusing, and Namok areas. The Indian Army, along with community representatives, maintained continuous vigil through the night, carefully assessing the fire’s progress and coordinating response efforts.

This major forest fire under Mangshila–Tibuk GPU in North Sikkim caused widespread concern among residents. Thick smoke engulfed the region, while the exact cause of the blaze remains unknown. The District Administration, along with the Fire & Emergency Services, Police, Forest Department, Panchayat members, and local volunteers, swiftly initiated coordinated measures to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to nearby habitations.

To strengthen monitoring and preparedness, drone cameras were deployed to provide real-time aerial surveillance. This enabled authorities to make contingency plans, avert any exigency, and enhance overall disaster management preparedness.

Through sustained and coordinated efforts, the blaze was successfully controlled—averting further damage and ensuring the safety of residents.

Hon’ble Minister for Forest and Environment and Area MLA, Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, visited the affected site to inspect the area and assess the situation firsthand. He was accompanied by DC Mangan Anant Jain, SP Mangan Shri L.B. Chettri, CLC President Smt. Amrita Limboo, OSD to HMLA Shri Roshan Limboo, DPO Mangan, Panchayat members, and local residents.

During his visit, the Minister commended the exemplary efforts of Fire Station Mangan, Fire Station Gangtok, the Forest Department, Rang Rang OP Police, Phodong Police, Mangan Police, and members of the local community. Their swift and decisive actions played a crucial role in containing the blaze and minimizing potential damage.

Minister Pintso Namgyal Lepcha expressed his deep appreciation for the professionalism and dedication displayed during the firefighting operations. He emphasized the importance of continued inter-departmental coordination and heightened community vigilance to prevent such incidents in the future.

Due to the prompt and seamless collaboration of all the departments, no major casualties were reported, and the situation was stabilized without further damage.

While images and short videos of the fire circulated widely on social media, the true story lies in the tireless efforts of those working relentlessly on the ground. Personnel of the North Sikkim Forest Department and Fire & Emergency Services remained stationed at the site 24 hours a day, battling the hazardous wildfire without proper rest.

Facing steep terrain, dense smoke, and long sleepless nights, these frontline workers used every possible method to control the flames. From creating fire lines to spraying water and continuously monitoring vulnerable zones, their unwavering commitment reflected immense courage and responsibility toward both nature and public safety.

Series of Fire Incidents Across Sikkim

The Mangshila incident is part of a worrying pattern of forest fires reported across Sikkim in recent weeks, largely attributed to an abnormally dry spell, extremely dry foliage, and heavy winds that have accelerated the spread of flames.

• Another forest fire was reported on 20 February at Upper Samdong in East Sikkim near Ranipool and Makha, prompting calls for immediate intervention.

• A forest fire was noticed at Pathing Forest of Yangang under Namchi District on 20 February, which is currently under control.

• A wildfire was reported at Payong Kau Vir in Namchi District on 19 February.

• On February 13 at around 12:40 PM, a sudden fire erupted at Pachey Dara above the Pakyong DAC area, reportedly triggered by prolonged dry weather and rising temperatures. SDM (HQ) Thendup Lepcha alerted DPO Pakyong T.R. Chettri, ensuring immediate activation of emergency protocols. The Fire Department, PHE Department, Power Department, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were mobilised. Two young monks played a commendable role from the outset, assisting responders in controlling the blaze. The fire was successfully extinguished without major damage.

• On 7 February 2026, a major forest fire broke out in the Bermiok–Chhalamthang area, triggering a swift response from the Forest Department and fire services.

• A fire broke out around Kupup village in East Sikkim on 20 January 2026.

• A forest fire was reported in the Namnang area of Gangtok at around 4:00 PM on 4 January. The Forest Department’s Quick Response Team (QRT), Gangtok, in close coordination with the Fire Department, responded promptly and brought the fire under control by 5:30 PM the same day. No casualties were reported.

• On 13 December 2025, a raging forest fire at Saffo in North Sikkim threatened vital green cover. Through hours of coordinated effort between the Dzongu Range, Mangan T Division, and Chungthang Range, the blaze was finally controlled—protecting a significant portion of North Sikkim’s natural heritage.

In each case, due to high levels of alertness and immediate response by the army, civil administration, forest officials, and local residents, the fires were brought under control without loss of life or property.

A Community United in Gratitude

Now, the fire in Mangshila, North Sikkim, is under control, and the situation is completely normal. Despite the flames being extinguished, the District Administration continues to maintain vigilance, ensuring that all resources remain deployed to address any exigency.

The villagers and people of the area extended their heartfelt appreciation and sincere gratitude to the District Administration, Forest Department, Fire Department, Police Department, Zilla Members, Panchayat Members, the Indian Army, and the local public for their tireless hard work, excellent coordination, and dedicated service.

"We extend our heartfelt appreciation and sincere gratitude to all the departments involved," said a local spokesperson. "Their tireless efforts and exceptional coordination played a crucial role in bringing the situation under control."

The recent series of forest fires serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preparedness, unity, and swift action during natural emergencies. Through collective responsibility and coordinated response, Sikkim has once again demonstrated resilience in safeguarding its people and its invaluable natural heritage.