Maharashtra Forest Department Activates Special Fire Prevention Measures
The Maharashtra Forest Department has announced a comprehensive special forest fire awareness week that will run from February 1 to February 7 across all forest divisions in the state. This initiative comes as part of proactive measures to combat the annual wildfire season that typically spans from February 15 to June 15.
24X7 Control Room and Public Outreach Initiatives
As part of the awareness week, the department has activated a 24X7 control room to monitor and respond to forest fire incidents. Various outreach activities have been planned to raise public awareness about the dangers of forest fires and the importance of conservation efforts.
"During the awareness week, officials will conduct meetings in villages located in forested and fire-prone areas to sensitize residents about the risks associated with forest fires," explained a department official. "Villagers will be informed about the critical importance of forest conservation and encouraged to cooperate with authorities to minimize environmental damage and protect government property."
The awareness drives will utilize multiple communication channels including advertisements, hoardings, audio-visual messages, and public engagements to reach a wider audience.
Physical Fire Prevention Measures Implemented
To reduce fire risks, the forest department has implemented several physical measures including:
- Clearing a 12-meter-wide buffer strip along forest boundaries on interstate borders
- Creating a 6-meter-wide strip along district borders
- Establishing fire lines along forest perimeters, ownership areas, and adjoining roads to prevent the spread of flames
Enhanced Monitoring and Response Systems
Deputy Conservator of Forests Dhairyasheel Patil emphasized that all officials have been instructed to remain vigilant in matters of forest conservation and protection. "Programs highlighting the importance of forests and the impact of wildfires will be organized at gram panchayats and other public venues during the fortnight and week-long campaign," he stated.
The department has deployed fire watchers in designated zones and strengthened precautionary measures. In case of fire incidents, teams comprising forest staff and villagers will act swiftly to control and extinguish the flames.
Toll-Free Helpline and Confidential Reporting
A dedicated control room has been established where officials will work round the clock to monitor the situation. The forest helpline '1926' has now been made toll-free to encourage public participation in forest protection efforts.
"We urge citizens to immediately report any illegal activities or deforestation cases," added Patil. "The identity of informants will be kept confidential to ensure their safety and encourage more people to come forward with information."
The annual wildfire season between February and June typically results in extensive loss of forest wealth and biodiversity, making these preventive measures particularly crucial for Maharashtra's ecological balance.
