Forest fires in focus: Mandi admn reviews preparedness measures

With the onset of the summer season increasing the risk of forest fires, a high-level meeting was convened at the district headquarters in Mandi under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan. The meeting brought together officials from various departments to review preparedness measures and strengthen coordination for the prevention and control of forest fires.

Present at the meeting were officials from the Forest, Revenue, Disaster Management, Fire Services, Public Works, Jal Shakti, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Agriculture and Horticulture departments. DC Devgan stressed that the protection of forests is a shared responsibility, not just of government agencies but also of the community at large. He urged officials to remain vigilant in their respective jurisdictions and encouraged greater community participation in efforts to safeguard forest resources.

The review focused on a range of key measures aimed at reducing fire risks and ensuring swift response in case of incidents. These included the removal of dry pine needles from forest floors, which pose a significant fire hazard in the region and the construction of fire lines in highly sensitive areas to prevent the spread of flames. The creation of water storage structures under MGNREGA was also discussed as a means to support firefighting efforts, along with the installation of fire hydrants and the formation of local vigilance teams.

DC Devgan highlighted the importance of awareness campaigns to involve local panchayats and voluntary organisations in fire prevention. He also emphasised the need for technical support and the integration of local volunteers and forest friends—known as Van Mitras—into the efforts of the Forest Department. A comprehensive survey of existing water resources that could be used during emergencies was also proposed.

Additional District Magistrate Dr Madan Kumar, XEN Jal Shakti Raj Kumar Saini, PWD Officer DR Chauhan and several other senior officers attended the meeting. The DC issued strict directives to all departments to stay alert at the ground level and take swift, coordinated action in the event of any reported forest fire.

Reminding all present of their legal responsibilities, he pointed out that under Section 79 of the Indian Forest Act, all government-paid officers and employees are obligated to assist the Forest Department and Police in preventing and fighting forest fires. He also warned of serious consequences for individuals found guilty of deliberately setting fires, noting that under Sections 26 and 33 of the Indian Forest Act, 1927, such offences can lead to imprisonment for up to two years and a fine of Rs. 500.

The DC said besides destroying trees, forest fires result in the loss of wildlife and the destruction of natural habitats. Preventing such disasters, he said, was vital for preserving biodiversity and maintaining the environmental balance of the region.