What are the reasons for the susceptibility of Uttarakhand‘s forests to fires?
The primary reasons behind the increasing frequency of
forest fires
in Uttarakhand stem from a combination of natural causes and human activities. The state’s forest cover comprises 24,305 sq km, accounting for approximately 44.5% of its geographical area, according to the latest report by the Forest Survey of India (FSI).
These forests, primarily dominated by the highly flammable
Chir Pine
trees covering 3.94 lakh hectares, are naturally susceptible to fires. Long dry spells across the Himalayas and other natural factors, such as excess biomass, contribute to the phenomenon.
Are most fires man-made?
Yes, almost 90% are. Villagers in hills traditionally burn forest floors to stimulate new grass growth and clear land for agricultural purposes, while activities like discarding lit bidis or bonfires near forest areas add to the problem. Over the last couple of weeks, dozens have been arrested in Uttarakhand for deliberately starting fires, either for reasons elaborated above, to make reels for social media or just out of pure mischief.
What role do govt restrictions on tree felling play?
Despite efforts such as creating over 50,000km of firelines to curb wildfire spread, restrictions on tree felling, imposed by a Supreme Court ruling in 1981 prohibiting cutting green trees above 1,000 meters altitude throughout the country, pose challenges in managing forest fires. These restrictions, as per govt officials, hinder efforts to mitigate fire risks by limiting the removal of fuel sources such as Chir Pine. Consequently, the state is currently seeking permission for tree enumeration to address this issue.
How can wildfires be mitigated?
Removing fuel sources like Chir Pine needles (highly flammable leaves of Chir Pine trees) can reduce the intensity of forest fires by disrupting the ‘fire triangle’, which includes fuel, heat and oxygen for ignition, as per forest officials. Also, educating people about the consequences of their actions, particularly regarding partying and carelessness near forest areas, will go a long way in addressing the issue, they add.
How significant is the involvement of local communities in curbing the fires?
Community involvement is crucial in mitigating forest fires, particularly in Uttarakhand, where villagers are forest-dependent for fodder and fuel wood. Engaging local youth and women in
forest management
efforts can be a game-changer, say environmentalists. By raising awareness and providing training, these communities can participate in fire prevention and suppression activities, leveraging their understanding of local ecosystems and fire dynamics.
