Uttar Pradesh Government on Alert to Check Forest Fires During Upcoming Summer

• 05 Feb 2024

Why in News?

In a proactive measure to prevent forest fires during the upcoming summer season, the UP government is implementing a series of strategic initiatives.

• The government is already on high alert and is running 'Forest Fire Safety Week' from February 1 to February 7 across the state to raise public awareness on fire prevention measures.

Key Points

• To bolster monitoring and control efforts, a dedicated Fire Control Cell has been set up in the offices of the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and the Department Head in Lucknow.
  • The Chief Forest Conservator (Publicity) has been designated as the nodal officer for the state headquarters cell, responsible for weekly reporting on fire incidents received from subordinate offices to the government.
  • At the divisional level, the government has mandated the establishment of control rooms, ensuring round-the-clock operations.
  • Operating 24/7 with three-shift employee deployments, these control rooms will register information in various ranges, ensuring swift action upon detection.
    • The Forest Conservator (Zonal) will also communicate pertinent information to the Chief Forest Conservator.
• Helpline numbers have been established for information related to forest fire incidents, with local helpline numbers made available for officers, the general public, and other departments in all districts.
• The government's monitoring efforts have yielded positive results, leading to a significant decline in forest fire incidents over the last three years.