فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
Firefighting teams and interveners continued their intensive efforts this Wednesday to gain full control over the fire that broke out in the forest of the Dardara municipality in the Chefchaouen province. The National Agency for Water and Forests announced significant progress, reporting that three out of the four major fire hotspots have been brought under control.
According to a statement from the Agency, the aircraft participating in the operation are currently focusing their efforts on extinguishing the fourth remaining hotspot. Meanwhile, ground crews have managed to surround and control several small, scattered hotspots to prevent them from reigniting.
The Agency has estimated the total area damaged by the fire so far to be approximately 500 hectares of forested land, in addition to some neighboring agricultural fields, representing a significant loss to the region’s forest and agricultural wealth.
Unprecedented Mobilization of Human and Logistical Resources
To combat this grave danger, a massive firefighting force of about 450 personnel from various specialized teams was mobilized, alongside the deployment of advanced resources, equipment, and machinery. This aerial mobilization included eight specialized aircraft—four “Canadair” planes and four “Turbo Thrush” planes—which played a pivotal role in curbing the flames and limiting their spread.
The Agency confirmed that the intervention operations, which are being conducted in full coordination, have so far succeeded in preventing any human casualties or injuries among residents or the participating crews. It also noted a significant improvement in the situation compared to Tuesday.
On-the-Ground Coordination Under Authority Supervision
This on-the-ground progress is the result of extensive coordination. The Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region and the governor of the Chefchaouen province are overseeing the extinguishing operation in close coordination with branches of the Royal Armed Forces, provincial and local authorities, as well as the effective participation of dozens of volunteers from nearby villages who stepped forward to assist and support the firefighting teams.
Significant Losses and Ongoing Challenges
Despite the progress made, field data has revealed the extent of the losses caused by the fire. It has consumed hundreds of fruit-bearing trees and led to the death of dozens of livestock, representing a severe blow to the economic interests of the local population.
In its statement, the National Agency for Water and Forests concluded that all human resources and logistical means will remain on high alert and fully mobilized until complete control is established over all fire hotspots and the fire is fully extinguished, ensuring it does not reignite.
