Remarkable Comeback: Forest Fires in Nagaland Drop by Over 32% from Nov 2023 to June 2024 | MorungExpress

Forest Fire Incidents in Nagaland See Significant Decline

Morung Express News, Dimapur | July 27

Official data from the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change reveals a notable decrease in forest fire incidents in Nagaland over the past year. Between November 2023 and June 2024, Nagaland recorded 2,609 forest fires, representing a significant 32.7% drop from the 3,882 incidents reported between November 2022 and June 2023. This data, provided by Union Minister of State Kirti Vardhan Singh in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha on July 25, underscores the positive trend.

Forest fires in Nagaland are most prevalent during the dry winter months and are predominantly ground fires, burning dry leaves, twigs, and pine needles. Despite high incidences recorded during the 2020-2021 season, with 4,957 cases, the numbers have since fluctuated but show a general decline this year.

Country-wide data also reflects a decrease in forest fires. From November 2023 to June 2024, the Forest Survey of India (FSI) detected 2,03,544 forest fires, compared to 2,12,249 in the previous season. These detections were facilitated by advanced satellite-mounted sensors, particularly the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) on the Suomi National Polar-Orbiting Partnership (SNPP).

The Ministry has implemented various strategies and frameworks to manage and prevent forest fires. A National Action Plan on Forest Fires has been developed, guiding several state governments in preparing their respective action plans. The FSI has also established a satellite-based ‘Forest Fire Monitoring and Alert System,’ providing timely alerts via SMS and email to registered users. Furthermore, a 24×7 Disaster Management Control Room ensures effective coordination with disaster management agencies to control forest fires.

Financial support under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme – Forest Fire Prevention and Management is provided to state governments and Union Territory administrations to bolster prevention and control measures.

This proactive approach by the Ministry and the technological advancements in monitoring and alert systems are crucial steps in mitigating forest fire risks across India.

Original Story https://www.morungexpress.com/forest-fires-in-nagaland-decline-by-over-32-during-nov-2023-june-2024-period
Category : Nagaland
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