The season of forest fires is here. These fires can be all-engulfing, devastating forests for days, killing wildlife, and threatening nearby townships. Cold regions like much of western Arunachal Pradesh are under constant threat of forest fires. A small spark is enough to burn down an entire forest, often caused by a human error that cannot be undone.
The forest department has claimed that the massive forest fire that recently broke out in the Doimara reserved forest was brought under control due to timely intervention by the department, with the help of the police and fire brigade. Another forest fire in the Dedzeeling elephant corridor of the Doimara reserved forest was also brought under control before major damage occurred.
Similarly, a major forest fire was prevented in Dirang, which remains one of the most dangerous places in terms of forest fires, as the area is highly prone to them. The long, dry winter makes the situation even more dangerous.
Forest fires are mostly the result of human intervention. The administration and village communities must come together and work out a practical plan to control wildfires.