Experts study impact of forest fire on flora, fauna

Tribune News Service

Haridwar/Dehradun, May 4

A team comprising experts from Gurukul Kangri University today began a survey of forest areas where fire is raging for the past few days. This study will assess the impact of forest fire on wildlife, birds and flora and fauna and compile a report.

Led by Dr Dinesh Bhatt, Dean of the Department of Wildlife and Zoology, the team surveyed intense forest terrain of Pauri Garhwal and Haridwar. Yesterday, it visited the Laldhang block of Haridwar district and later headed for Kotdwar in Pauri Garhwal district.

Bhatt told The Tribune that the four-member team would for the next couple of days assess the impact of forest fires on the wildlife and birds and also suggest ways to lessen the impact of fires on forest terrain.

He said the breeding period of the majority of 300 bird species found in Uttarakhand falls between March and May. The intense forest fire raging in the area was proving to be a major threat to the existence of avian species.

“We will do a detailed analysis and compile a report, which may serve as a guideline for the government, the Forest Department and local people. Most of the avian species breed during autumn and the initial summer months. The devastating fire may have a serious impact on the existence of these species,” said Bhatt.

However, he refused to divulge the initial findings, as the final details would be made public before the month end. He added that the wildlife was suffering the most due to the forest fires.

Fire safety drill at FRI

A fire safety drill took place at the Forest Research Institute (FRI) here on Tuesday.

Fire inspector NP Singh from the CISF informed FRI officers and staff about fire, reasons for fire incidents, how to control fire, its classification and type of extinguishers.

FRI Director Dr Savita referred to a recent case of fire that occurred in Bamboosetum of the FRI and how it was controlled. She informed the officers about the safety of houses and do’s and don’ts in case of fire.