DEHRADUN
: As the threat of an early summer looms with the winter season remaining mostly dry this year, forest department has already started making preparations to check fires in the state. However, the state government has granted only Rs 20 crore for taking necessary steps in this direction as against the request for Rs 35 crore made by the department, says
Jai Raj
, head of forest force in the state.
Talking to TOI, the official said, “With the sanctioned amount, we will pay daily wages to workers and buy necessary equipment. We have also asked the employees for suggestions on most essential items to be bought with the available funds.”
Meanwhile in Dehradun division,
Rajiv Dhiman
, divisional forest officer, said, “Buffer zones and fire stretches are being cleared of any dry or dead vegetation so that fire does not spread into the forests. A total of 116 crew stations have been set up across the division.” He added that the crew stations would co-ordinate with all the agencies involved to curb
forest fires.
“The role of locals is vital in controlling forest fires. Hence, we have started awareness campaigns across the state. Forest staff and volunteers from NGOs will sensitize people on preventing fires and urge them to refrain from throwing away cigarette stubs or match sticks. Locals have also been asked to immediately alert officials if they spot fire anywhere,” said Jai Raj.
Intermittent summer rains last year had controlled forest fires to a certain extent. However, in 2016, around 4500 hectares were gutted in unprecedented forest fires across the state.
Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.
Start a Conversation
Post comment