JAIPUR: The massive fire that broke out in the hills near Sisarma village in Udaipur has been contained after firemen along with forest officials and the armed forces battled the blaze for hours with an IAF chopper today dropping over 25,000 litres of water.
The fire broke out last night and had started spreading to the Eklingarh Military Cantonment in Udaipur.
"Prompt and effective fire fighting operation was carried out by army troops with guidance from officials of the Forest Department and assistance from fire fighting services.
"The operation continued throughout the night, with all agencies working in coordination on the ground to ensure no loss of life and property," said Defence Spokesperson Lt Col Manish Ojha.
He said post assessment of the spread of the fire, the Indian Air Force was called in for help. Two suitably equipped/modified MI-17 V5 helicopters were flown in to Udaipur.
The helicopters took off at first light on Wednesday and after a quick recce of the affected area, started the fire fighting operation.
One MI-17 V5 helicopter carried out 10 sorties, dropping over 25000 liters of water by an underslung 'Bambi Bucket' effectively dousing the fire as reports came last, he added.