02nd August 2023 17:16:09 Hours
Morning hours on 02 August 2023, In a remarkable display of efficiency and prompt action, a contingent of Army personnel, including one Officer from 3 (V) Battalion Gemunu Watch under 613 Infantry Brigade of Security Forces (West), swiftly responded to a bushfire that broke out in the Kuruthotakanda, Ginnaliya forest area, located in the Matara district, at the request of the Police Station Urubokka. The incident began when a bushfire was brought into the forest reserve from the Kolonna Area Forest Reserve in the Rathnapura district.
When the news was reported, the Army personnel wasted no time in mobilizing their resources and rushing to the scene. With their specialized training and coordinated efforts, they were able to contain and extinguish the fast-spreading flames within a remarkable three-hour timeframe before it could escalate into a larger and more destructive event. Further, the fire has spread to an area of around 8 acres of forest, covered with many trees, creepers and wild bushes.
Meanwhile, the task was totally monitored by the Commanding Officer of 3 (V) Battalion Gemunu Watch as per the guidelines given by the Commander, 613 Infantry Brigade, under the Instructions of the Commander, Security Forces (West) and the General Officer Commanding 61 Infantry Division.
