Bhubaneswar, Feb 5: With summer approaching, the Forest Department of Odisha has ramped up its efforts to prevent forest fires, deploying a range of preventive and monitoring measures to minimize fire incidents and ensure rapid response in vulnerable areas.
In a bid to curb the rising threats, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) has issued a stern warning that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found deliberately setting forest fires. Authorities are also urging the public to actively report any fire incidents to help mitigate the damage.
The department has established a dedicated helpline number, 18003457158, for the public to report forest fires as soon as they spot one. Officials have emphasized the importance of early reporting to enable quick intervention.
Recent data reveals a significant decrease in fire incidents. In January 2022, there were 670 fire points across the state, while the same period this year saw only 341 incidents. This decline is seen as a positive sign of the effectiveness of the department's ongoing efforts.
To bolster the state's preparedness further, 334 forest fire protection teams have been strategically deployed across Odisha. Additionally, 5,000 leaf blowers are on standby for rapid response during fire control operations. In an effort to raise awareness, the Forest Department has conducted forest fire prevention campaigns in 336 villages.
Moreover, around 200 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have undergone specialized training to assist in firefighting operations. The combined measures reflect the state's proactive approach to safeguarding its forests from the devastating effects of forest fires.
