Sri Lanka Air Force Bell 412 Deployed to Contain Forest Fire in Raththanagolla – Imbulpe, Balangoda
Posted on August 9th, 2025
Ministry of Defence – Media Centre
A forest fire that broke out today (08 Aug) in the Raththanagolla – Imbulpe area of Balangoda prompted an immediate coordinated response under the direction of the Ministry of Defence.
Acting swiftly, the Sri Lanka Air Force deployed a Bell 412 helicopter to conduct Bumbi bucket operations to assist in fire suppression efforts from the air. The aerial firefighting operation was launched in close coordination with the Disaster Management Centre (DMC), aiming to prevent further spread and damage to the forest cover.
The timely intervention underscores the Ministry’s ongoing commitment to rapid disaster response and environmental protection. Further operations will continue as necessary in collaboration with local authorities and emergency services.