Fire in Sigchos: Firefighters control 90% of the blaze while investigating its origin.

Since the early morning of Friday, August 30, a large group of nearly 100 firefighters has been tirelessly working to extinguish the wildfire that broke out on Sunday, August 25, on the slopes of El Pulpito hill in Sigchos. So far, their efforts have paid off, managing to control the fire by 90%, according to reports from the provincial fire commander, Colonel Ángel Baño. The first hours of the day were crucial for assessing the damage and defining an attack strategy. With the dawn, the firefighting teams began thorough inspections of the affected area. "The tactic we employed was an indirect attack, creating a defense line that expanded to contain the advance of the fire," Baño explained. This strategy has proven effective in containing the flames, although efforts to fully extinguish the fire continue to ensure it does not reignite. During the previous night, firefighters focused on monitoring the upper part of the mountain, removing any debris that could reignite the fire. "The goal is to scrape the entire fire line down to the mineral soil, preventing any embers or burning roots from restarting the fire," the colonel added. So far, it is estimated that around 500 hectares have been affected, although more precise figures are expected from satellite and drone analyses at the Unified Command Post (PMU). The fire in Sigchos has been the most devastating of several that have been recorded in the Cotopaxi province in recent days. While other smaller hotspots in locations like Latacunga have been quickly controlled, the impact of the fire in Sigchos has endangered local flora and fauna, as well as the safety of the area's inhabitants. In light of the magnitude of the tragedy, the municipality of Sigchos has decided to take legal action. Gerardo Villagómez, the municipal attorney, and councilor Marco Granja went to the Prosecutor's Office to file a complaint investigating the origin of the fire. Villagómez emphasized that they seek to determine responsibilities, in accordance with Article 246 of the Comprehensive Organic Criminal Code, which establishes penalties of one to three years in prison for those who threaten nature. "It is crucial to stop these acts that cause so much damage to our environment," asserted the attorney, while requesting a thorough investigation by the Prosecutor's Office into the events. This action is part of a broader effort by local authorities to protect the environment and hold accountable those who cause ecological disasters. Colonel Baño also spoke on the matter, applauding the municipality's initiative. He highlighted the importance of citizen commitment in fire management, emphasizing that while controlled burns can be conducted, they must be done with authorization and under the supervision of the fire department. "It is essential for citizens to be aware of the consequences of their actions," he stated. The situation in Sigchos highlights not only the vulnerability of natural areas to fire but also the need for greater education and awareness regarding environmental care. Authorities hope that this incident will serve as a wake-up call about the importance of prevention and responsible management of natural resources. As firefighters continue their work, the residents of the area remain hopeful that a total extinguishment of the fire will soon be declared. However, the uncertainty about the possibility of a similar tragedy recurring lingers, reinforcing the urgency of adopting effective measures to protect local biodiversity and ecosystems.