forest fire

Tamil Nadu's forest department is enhancing fire preparedness after a recent blaze in the Nilgiris. Efforts include removing combustible exotic trees, creating fire trenches, and establishing a network of control centers with real-time satellite alerts. These measures aim to improve response times and combat rising fire incidents attributed to climate change and suspected deliberate ignition.

Odisha has recorded over 18,000 forest fire incidents this summer, with Baliguda and Kalahandi North divisions being major hotspots. These fires are linked to local livelihood practices like mahua flower collection and shifting cultivation. Despite the high numbers, the situation is currently below last year's levels due to weather and proactive forest department interventions.

Uttarakhand's Kumaon region is experiencing a significant drop in tourism, with arrivals down by up to 20% in popular spots like Kausani due to ongoing forest fires. Smoke has reduced visibility of the Himalayas, a key attraction, impacting visitors seeking to escape pollution. Authorities are intensifying monitoring and taking action against those responsible for the human-induced fires.

Bhitarkanika National Park authorities are implementing special measures to protect wildlife during the intense summer heat. Artificial water tanks and renovated ponds are being utilized to provide drinking water, while increased patrolling aims to deter poachers. Special attention is also being given to penned crocodiles and hatchlings, with fire lines and extinguishers in place to prevent forest fires.

Calling lantana a major trigger, officials said the blaze intensified quickly because of dense dry shrub cover

Jeypore forest division recorded 231 fire incidents between January 1 and April 21, with 183 within forest areas. Officials conducted mock drills and community awareness campaigns to enhance firefighting preparedness and discourage traditional hunting practices that cause ecological damage.

The fire first broke out in the Glenmorgan Reserve Forest seven days ago and later spread to the Singara region. More than 500 acres of reserve forest have been damaged.

Facing heat exhaustion among personnel, Odisha's forest department plans to propose motorcycle-mounted fire blowers to the government. This move aims to reduce fatigue and exposure to extreme heat during dousing operations, drawing inspiration from states like Maharashtra. The department also noted a decrease in fire incidents this year, attributing it partly to favourable weather.

Over 500 personnel are battling a relentless wildfire in Nilgiris, now in its eleventh day, consuming nearly 5,000 acres. Despite IAF helicopter efforts, high winds have forced firefighters to manually combat the blaze in challenging terrain. The ecological impact on wildlife and vital grasslands is a growing concern, though authorities report the fire is largely under control.