Gurkhas have been deployed to South Wales to assist in combating wildfires that have intensified across the region amid prolonged dry conditions. The South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) confirmed on Sunday that it was managing “significant wildfire activity” with the aid of additional personnel from across the UK and military support. On Saturday alone, SWFRS crews addressed ten large fires, while approximately 100 personnel, including members of the Queen’s Own Gurkha Logistic Regiment (QOGLR) and 22 Royal Engineers, were dispatched to provide logistical, operational, and planning support. A further 100 are expected to join, according to the Ministry of Defence. The deployment marks a continuation of a long-standing partnership between Nepalese Gurkhas and the British military, which dates back over 200 years. The QOGLR, a unit within the Royal Logistic Corps, consists of Nepalese Gurkhas and British officers. Their involvement highlights the historical collaboration between the two nations. These troops contributed to critical tasks such as water distribution, logistical support, and creating mobile water reservoirs in strategic locations. Military personnel transported water from distant sources to supply key areas, ensuring that firefighters and other emergency responders had access to essential resources. They also facilitated the movement of equipment, supplies, and personnel to critical locations, enhancing the efficiency of the response. The risk of wildfires remains elevated in South Wales due to a persistent drought, even though temperatures are expected to ease in the near future. Firefighters have been operating in grueling conditions, often working 10- or 11-hour shifts without rest or access to basic facilities. Gareth Tovey, a representative of the Fire Brigades Union in Wales, described the situation as extremely challenging, noting that meals consumed by firefighters were frequently covered in soot. Deputy Chief Fire Officer Adam Openshaw emphasized the importance of collective efforts in safeguarding communities during this period of heightened danger. He acknowledged the difficult circumstances faced by both emergency personnel and residents, reaffirming the commitment to public safety. The scale of the crisis prompted the UK government to issue a nationwide alert through mobile devices, warning of a “very high risk of wildfires.” Prime Minister Andy Burnham referred to the nation as a “tinderbox,” leading to a temporary ban on disposable barbecues. SWFRS reported receiving 736 emergency calls on Saturday, far exceeding the usual number of around 300. Authorities urged the public to contact emergency services only if there was a new incident to report, underscoring the need to conserve resources for genuine emergencies. Firefighting efforts continued unabated, with crews addressing multiple incidents across the region. Mid and West Wales Fire Rescue and Service reported blazes in several locations, including Rhandirmwyn and Ammanford in Carmarthenshire, Hay-on-Wye and Brecon in Powys, Gorseinon and Swansea, and Tenby in Pembrokeshire. Additional incidents involving smoke were recorded in Llanelli, Carmarthenshire. Chris Bryant, MP for Rhondda and Ogmore, highlighted the severity of a fire in Treherbert, Rhondda Cynon Taf, and commended the assistance provided by London-based crews. He noted the presence of fire engines from across the UK and two helicopters deployed throughout the day, expressing admiration for the dedication of emergency workers. Fin Monahan, deputy chief fire officer for South Wales, praised the military for its contributions, describing their work as “utterly phenomenal.” Soldiers assisted in constructing firebreaks and digging trenches, allowing firefighters to concentrate on their core responsibilities. Monahan acknowledged the necessity of mobilizing the military given the overwhelming demand on local resources. He also highlighted the challenges posed by the strained Welsh water system, explaining how military logistics enabled the transport of large volumes of water from regions with surplus to areas affected by fires. Despite the government’s emergency alerts, Monahan expressed concern over individuals continuing to engage in risky behaviors, such as burning tires beneath trees, which he deemed irresponsible.
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