Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu Urges Swift Action on Forest Fires

In Himachal Pradesh, a state in northern India known for its picturesque landscapes, forest fires have caused significant damage to the environment. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has expressed concern over the destruction of 12,718 hectares of land due to these fires. He has urged the Forest Department to act swiftly to address this pressing issue.

Chief Minister Sukhu has stressed the importance of implementing both short-term and long-term strategies to combat forest fires effectively. He has highlighted the crucial role of public participation in preventing and controlling such incidents. Despite a decrease in the number of forest fire occurrences this year, with 1,318 incidents reported so far, the impact on plantation zones has been severe, leading to an estimated financial loss of Rs 4.61 crore.

To tackle the challenges posed by forest fires, the government is considering the establishment of a specialized unit of the National Disaster Response Force dedicated to firefighting. Additionally, 374 forest beats have been identified as highly vulnerable to fires, necessitating enhanced fire-fighting services in these areas.

Chief Minister Sukhu has emphasized the need to diversify plant species in coniferous regions to enhance moisture retention and reduce the risk of fires. He has also called for a comprehensive study by a government agency to identify the root causes of these incidents and recommend appropriate preventive measures.

The devastating impact of forest fires in Himachal Pradesh underscores the urgency of implementing proactive measures to safeguard the state's rich biodiversity and natural resources. By fostering public engagement, enhancing firefighting capabilities, and promoting sustainable forest management practices, the government aims to mitigate the risks posed by future fire outbreaks and protect the region's ecological balance.