Medziphema, January 15 (MExN): In light of the prevailing dry weather conditions significantly increasing the risk of wildfires, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Medziphema, P James Swu, has issued a directive mandating strict observance of necessary precautions to prevent the outbreak of fires in forest areas, jhum lands, and surrounding landscapes.
The directive underscores that forest fires cause severe damage to forests, wildlife, public property, and also pose a serious threat to human life and the environment.
The instructions were issued to strictly complied with by all offices, institutes, villages, wards, landowners, farmers and the general public, stated a DIPR report.
All institutes and offices have been advised to construct and establish wide firebreaks (10-30 meters) by clearing dry vegetation, leaves and debris around the campus, hostels and key infrastructures They must also train staff, students and hostel hostellers on fire safety, prevention, and evacuation protocols.
A mandatory fire watch team is to be set up during the peak fire season from January to March, and maintain fire fighting equipment, including self-activated fire extinguishing balls across the campus and offices. Additionally, campuses are advised to erect fences to prevent the infiltration of outsiders, while the police have been requested to conduct patrols in sensitive areas as and when possible.
The directive places specific responsibilities on village councils, ward councillors, landowners and cultivators to ensure proper fire lines around jhum fields, plantations and settlements before undertaking any controlled burning.
Furthermore, any person noticing a forest fire is required to immediately inform the nearest Village Council, Police Station, Forest Department, or Administrative Office. Village councils and ward councillors are also instructed to keep vigil and take prompt action in case of any fire incident.
