Forest fire controlled in western Cuba

Havana, April 29 (RHC)-- A large forest fire that originated in the mountains of the municipality of Minas de Matahambre, in the western Cuban province of Pinar del Río, is now under control.

The second chief of the Forest Ranger Corps (CGB) in Pinar del Río territory, Andy Luis Valle, explained that the intense drought and the intricate nature of the place complicated the fight against the flames.

Forces from the CGB, Empresa Forestal Minas de Matahambre and Minera del Caribe worked together day and night to control the fire.

The work of liquidation of the hottest points continues, and the perimeter is being checked to verify that there is no reactivation of the fire.

According to Granma newspaper, an estimated 300 hectares of pine forests have been affected.

The fire started in the early evening hours of last Monday in an area known as El paso del cuero, where a compact mass of forest prevented access.

This is the second forest fire of great magnitude occurred so far this year in Pinar del Río.