Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh expressed shock and deep sorrow over the death of assistant sub-inspector Nongthombam Binoy Meetei.
TFM Desk
As the Indian Air Force, Indian Army, Fire Services, Police forces, amongst other are scrambling to douse the wildfire that is spreading beyond the Dzuko valley, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) assistant sub-inspector Nongthombam Binoy Meetei, who was deployed at Dzuko for the ongoing firefighting operation, passed away at the base camp on Tuesday.
Although the cause of death is yet to be ascertained, it has been reported that on Tuesday morning, he failed to wake up from sleep and was found dead inside one of the base camps set up on the way to Dzuko.
Meanwhile, Manipur chief minister N Biren Singh expressed shock and deep sorrow over the death of Binoy.
The chief minister was attending a foundation stone laying function of different projects at Bishnupur Bazaar when he conveyed the news to the gathering. He requested them to stand up and observe a one-minute silence together with him to pay respect to the departed soul.
A resident of Luwangshangbam Maning Leikai in Imphal East district, Binoy Meetei was a committed officer. His dedication to duty and zeal for accomplishing objectives was exceptional. He died in the line of duty serving his people. His works and sacrifice for the state will ever remain as an inspiration to his fellow citizens, a release said.
If not controlled on time, Dzuko wildfire could create huge environmental impact destroying vast areas of forest cover, wildlife and their habitats and thousands of plant species having precious medicinal values. Binoy was a dedicated member of the group, who is currently camping at two different base camps braving the cold winter at high altitudes.
The fire that broke out possibly on December 29 at the Dzuko valley is spreading South towards the Manipur side. The cause of the fire has not been ascertained yet.
Biren offered his heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. He also prayed for peace to the departed soul.