SLAF ’copters fight Knuckles fire

By Anurangi Singh

SLAF helicopters flew 12 sorties to drop water in an effort to douse a forest fire in the Knuckles mountain range yesterday, Air Force sources said. Officials told the Sunday Observer that while the fire had not yet been completely put out, they had succeeded in blocking the spread toward nearby communities.

According to Disaster Management media spokesperson, Pradeep Kodippili, this fire was likely caused by human activities. “Today we sought the help of the Air force to control the fire. This has been continuing for a few days now.

It’s clearly done by people who carry out illegal activities in the forest. We have been able to control the fire,” he said.

Air Force media spokesperson, Group Captain Chandima Alwis said that they deployed a Bell-212 multi-purpose helicopter for the mission. “From about noon yesterday we deployed the Bell-212 which is the most capable air craft that we have for such situations. 12 water drops were completed and we managed to secure the areas bordering residences.” The SLAF expects to renew the firefighting sorties today.