Following Chief Minister Dhami’s firm stance on forest fire prevention, the Forest Department has taken decisive action against individuals responsible for igniting forest fires, with three offenders apprehended and charged.
In an ongoing effort to curb forest fire incidents, the Forest Department has intensified its vigilance and enforcement measures. A dedicated forest fire protection team, led by Divisional Forest Officer Abhimanyu in Rudraprayag, successfully apprehended Naresh Bhatt in Tadiyal village, Jakholi Tehsil, while in the act of setting fire to the forest. Bhatt, claiming to ignite the fire to promote fresh grass growth for grazing livestock, was promptly detained and charged under the Indian Forest Act 1927.
Similarly, Hemant Singh and Bhagwati Lal, residents of Dangwal village in North Jakholi, were also caught red-handed setting fire in the forest and promptly sent to jail.
Divisional Forest Officer Abhimanyu reiterated the department’s commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of forest fires face legal repercussions. With 19 cases registered this year alone, investigations are underway to address each incident. Utilizing a combination of ground teams, satellite technology, and surveillance equipment, the Forest Department is diligently monitoring forested areas to deter future offenses.
Acknowledging the importance of community involvement, Deputy Divisional Forest Officer Devendra Singh emphasized the necessity of public participation in forest fire prevention efforts.
As the Forest Department continues its vigilant stance against forest fires, the collective efforts of officials and community members remain pivotal in safeguarding Uttarakhand’s precious natural resources.