Forest Fire Management

Forest fires are one of the major challenges to the protection and conservation of forests in Uttarakhand. The State's mountainous terrain, dry weather conditions, accumulation of dry leaf litter and increasing temperatures during the summer season can increase the risk and intensity of forest fires. Forest fires can adversely affect forest regeneration, biodiversity, wildlife habitats, soil health and the livelihoods of forest-dependent communities.

Forest Fire Management involves a combination of preventive, preparedness, response and post-fire restoration measures. Important activities include the creation and maintenance of fire lines, removal of dry biomass, early detection and monitoring of fire incidents, strengthening communication systems, deployment of fire-fighting equipment, capacity building of field staff and community awareness and participation. Timely response and coordination among different agencies are essential for controlling fires and minimising damage to forest resources.

Through CAMPA-supported interventions, the Forest Department can strengthen fire management infrastructure and provide essential equipment and resources to field formations. Support may include construction and maintenance of fire lines, fire-fighting tools and equipment, water storage and other fire-control infrastructure, communication facilities, capacity building and training of frontline staff, and awareness programmes involving local communities and Van Panchayats.

CAMPA also supports the involvement of local communities and Van Panchayats in forest fire prevention and management. Community participation is particularly important in Uttarakhand, where villages are closely connected with forest areas. Awareness, early reporting of fire incidents and community-level preparedness can significantly improve the response to forest fires.

The State CAMPA's support therefore complements the efforts of the Forest Department by strengthening infrastructure, equipment, human resources, technology and community participation for effective forest fire management. The overall objective is to reduce the incidence and impact of forest fires and ensure the protection, regeneration and long-term sustainability of Uttarakhand's forest ecosystems.

STATUS OF YEARWISE EXPENDITURE IN FOREST FIRE MANAGEMENT UNDER UTTARAKHAND CAMPA