Shimla, June 3,
Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu convened an urgent meeting with the Forest Department to address the devastating forest fires in Himachal Pradesh. Expressing grave concern, he directed immediate and long-term measures to combat the issue. Emphasizing public participation, he noted that although the number of forest fire incidents has gradually decreased, the damage remains significant.
The Chief Minister highlighted that this year alone, 1,318 fire incidents have been recorded, affecting 12,718 hectares of land, including 2,789 hectares of plantation area. Preliminary financial losses are estimated at Rs. 4.61 crore. These figures underscore the severity of the situation and the urgent need for effective measures.
Criticism has mounted against both the BJP-led central government and the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh for ignoring the escalating crisis. In response, the Chief Minister revealed plans to form a dedicated NDRF battalion, specially equipped and trained for firefighting. Additionally, 374 forest beats have been identified as highly sensitive to fires, with efforts underway to bolster fire-tackling services in these regions.
Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasized the need to diversify coniferous plant regions with species that help retain moisture, potentially reducing the incidence of fires. He also directed the forest department to conduct a comprehensive study to understand the causes of these fires and recommend necessary actions.
Despite these announcements, there has been public outcry over the perceived inaction and disconnect of politicians, who have been criticized for traveling by helicopter and failing to witness the ground realities.
Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena, Additional Chief Secretary Onkar Chand Sharma, Principal Secretary Forests Dr. Amandeep Garg, Secretary to the Chief Minister Rakesh Kanwar, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Rajiv Kumar, and other senior department officers attended the meeting.
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