Odisha Strengthens Forest Fire Prevention Measures Ahead of Peak Season

Bhubaneswar: With the onset of the forest fire season approaching, the Odisha government has intensified its fire prevention and mitigation efforts to safeguard the state’s rich forest cover. A comprehensive strategy has been put in place, combining advanced technology, district-level planning, trained fire response teams, and real-time monitoring systems to tackle potential fire outbreaks effectively.

Minister for Forest, Environment and Climate Change, Shri Ganesh Ram Singkhuntia, shared these measures while responding to a question in the Odisha Legislative Assembly.

A District Action Plan (DAP) is being formulated in each district by November-December, well before the peak fire season, under the chairmanship of the District Collector. This plan ensures coordinated efforts from various departments in tackling forest fires.

As part of preventive measures, fire lines have been created within the forests and along their borders. Awareness campaigns, including banners, advertisements, and mock fire drills, are being conducted at the forest and range levels to educate local communities and stakeholders.

To enhance fire response capabilities, a specialized fire prevention team has been formed, equipped with firefighting vehicles, fire extinguishers, and protective gear. Additionally, 334 fire protection squads have been deployed across the state, and Forest Protection Committees (VSS) are receiving assistance and resources for active participation in fire control efforts.

Incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning, the state has installed five AI/ML cameras in Similipal National Park, which provide real-time alerts on potential fire hazards. Furthermore, 24×7 control rooms have been set up at the state headquarters and forest department offices to monitor and manage forest fires.

For rapid response coordination, the mobile numbers of range, section, and BIT-level staff have been registered with the Forest Survey of India (FSI) website, ensuring they receive instant alerts. Odisha’s forest fire monitoring is integrated with FSI Dehradun, which connects all forest fire points with the state. The Odisha Forest Management System (OFMS) portal allows field staff to download fire alerts, respond swiftly, and upload detailed reports with photographs through the OFMS mobile app.