A state of emergency has been declared in Ecuador due to a forest fire.

The forest fire that broke out in the Guapulo area of Quito, the capital of Ecuador, has been ongoing for 3 days. Quito Mayor Pabel Munoz announced that a state of emergency has been declared in the city, where efforts to combat the flames are continuing. In his statement, Munoz said, "This decision may help us secure at least half a million dollars in critical aid from international organizations for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the damaged ecosystem." The fire, which started on Tuesday, has been recorded as one of the most devastating fires in the city in recent years. The sky in the city has been covered with black smoke due to the flames, and it has been reported that 6 houses have become uninhabitable. Approximately 2,000 firefighters, military personnel, and rescue workers are participating in the firefighting efforts.

IF THE FIRE WAS CAUSED BY ARSON, THOSE INVOLVED WILL BE TRIED FOR TERRORISM

In a statement made by local authorities, it was reported that 107 houses have been evacuated due to the fire, and 2 firefighters and 4 people, including 2 children, have been injured. While the cause of the fire is still unknown, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa stated that if it is determined that the fire was caused by arson, those involved will be tried for terrorism. In Ecuador, which is struggling with severe drought, 3,302 forest fires occurred last year, burning 37,808 hectares of land.