In view of the prevailing dry weather conditions, which would significantly increase the risk of forest fires, ADC Medziphema, P. James Swu has informed and directed to strictly observe necessary precautions to prevent outbreak of fire in forest areas, jhum lands and surrounding landscapes.
It stated that Forest fires cause severe damage to forests, wildlife, public property, and also pose a serious threat to human life and the environment.
The following instructions were issued to strictly complied with by all Offices, Institutes, villages, wards, landowners, farmers and the general public:
a) Institutes/Offices are advised to construct and establish wide firebreaks (10-30 meters) by clearing dry vegetation, leaves and debris around the campus, hostels and key infrastructures.
b) Organize prescribed burns during safe weather conditions (non-windy, high humidity days) under expert supervision to eliminate excess dry fuel.
c) Institutes/Offices to train staffs, students and hostellers on fire safety, prevention and evacuation protocols.
d) Set up fire watch teams during peak fire season (January to March).
e) Maintain fire fighting equipments including self activated fire extinguishing ball across the campus/offices.
f) Put up a fence to prevent infiltration of outsiders into the campus.
g) Police to patrol the sensitive areas as and when possible.
h) Village Council to create awareness on forest fires within the village jurisdiction.
i) No burning of forest, grass, jhum fields or dry vegetation shall be carried out during windy conditions.
j) All village councils, Ward Councillors, land owners and cultivators shall ensure proper fire lines around jhum fields, plantations and settlements before undertaking any controlled burning.
k) Any person who notices a forest fire shall immediately inform the nearest village council, Police station, Forest Department or Administrative office.
l) Village councils and Ward councillors are to keep vigil and take prompt action in case of any fire incident.
(IA Medziphema)