Forest fires: Solan DC bans stubble burning to curb threat

With forest fires posing a growing threat to the climate, wildlife and human lives, Solan Deputy Commissioner (DC) Manmohan Sharma has issued a strict directive prohibiting stubble burning during the fire season from April 1 to June 30. The move, aimed at reducing fire incidents, invokes Section 34 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, making it mandatory for farm owners to comply with the ban.

The Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs) have also warned farmers to refrain from stubble burning and emphasised the importance of adhering to Himachal Pradesh’s 100-m norm, which prohibits igniting agricultural residue within 100m of a forest boundary without prior notification and a 10-m clear gap.

DC Sharma emphasised that forest fires are increasing every year, causing immense destruction to human life, wildlife and the environment. He cited studies indicating that most forest fires are anthropogenic, meaning they result from human activity, making preventive measures even more crucial.

To strengthen fire preparedness, a recent meeting convened by the DC focused on mitigation strategies. Sub-divisional level committees, led by their respective SDMs, have been formed to ensure effective coordination. Community participation has been prioritised, with representatives from urban local bodies, panchayati raj institutions, and local residents urged to actively contribute to fire prevention efforts.

The Forest Department has identified 94 highly sensitive areas, where intensive monitoring is underway. Locals have been urged to report any fire incidents via the emergency toll-free number 1077. Additionally, DC Sharma suggested deploying night guards at the village panchayat level, a practice that has proven effective in previous years.

Last year, Solan forest circle reported 216 forest fire incidents. According to DFO headquarters’ Urvashi, these incidents comprised 134 in the Nalagarh division and 82 in the Solan division.

Recognising the crucial role of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) workers in fire prevention, the Forest, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj departments have been directed to collaborate with villagers. To further aid in fire management, the Rural Development Department has been instructed to construct ponds in forest areas under MGNREGA. Sharma noted that the lack of water sources near fire-prone zones significantly hampers firefighting efforts, making these ponds a vital resource in controlling outbreaks.