The forest fire in Bulgaria’s Rila Mountain has been contained from three sides, the blaze continues only on the northwestern slopes, Nova TV station reported on Sunday.

The advance of the fire front to the south towards the landmark St. Ivan Rilski Monastery has been halted.  

According to the governor of Kyustendil Region Victor Yanev the northwestern slopes remain the only remaining problematic section while there is no danger of the fire resuming its advance in the other directions.

Some 250 firefighters, military personnel and volunteers have taken part in fighting the blaze that broke out on Thursday evening. Three helicopters have poured over 86 tonnes of water over the fire fronts. Firifighting efforts have been hampered by the rugged terrain most of which is accessible only on foot.

Authorities have decided to double the number of military servicemen helping firefighters control the blaze which has already affected about 15 hectares of forest area. Two helicopters will continue dumping water on the existing fire front on Sunday until the flames are put out completely.

Ignoring the rules for igniting a camping fire in a forest area is the most widely suspected reason for the blaze, according to the authorities.