Forest fires in Ibarra and Putzalahua cause environmental concern

Firefighters in Ibarra have officially declared a forest fire in the Priorato sector, located in the Tahuando River ravine, fully extinguished after 22 hours of operations. The emergency began on September 1, prompting the mobilization of three fire stations to protect nearby residential areas. Due to steep slopes and high winds, crews were forced to work on foot using manual tools like machetes and fire beaters in certain sections.

In a separate but related environmental crisis, officials in Belisario Quevedo report that a recent forest fire at Putzalahua has caused significant ecological damage, potentially taking 20 years to recover. Luis Taipe, president of the local GAD Parroquial, stated that investigations are underway to determine if the fire was intentionally set. Local leaders are calling for the 123 hectares of municipal property in the area to be declared a protected zone to ensure permanent ranger presence and prevent future incidents.