Massive Loss of Forest Cover in Odisha
Odisha has been grappling with a severe wildfire crisis, with thousands of hectares of forest cover lost to relentless fires over the years. In just the past three months, nearly 3,000 hectares have been destroyed by wildfires, while over the past four years, a staggering 54,000 hectares have been reduced to ashes.
The alarming statistics were revealed in the Odisha Assembly on Tuesday by Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia. The report highlights the urgent need for stronger forest protection measures as environmental degradation accelerates due to recurring wildfires.
Rising Incidents of Wildfires in Odisha
The minister’s data painted a worrying picture of the increasing frequency of wildfires in the state:
· 2021: The most devastating year, with 28,569 hectares of forest cover lost.
· 2022: A slight improvement, but still 8,438 hectares burned.
· 2023: A renewed surge, with 9,711 hectares destroyed by fire.
· 2024 (First Three Months): Nearly 3,000 hectares of forest already lost to wildfires.
The findings were disclosed in response to a question raised by BJD MLA Ramesh Behera, bringing the issue into sharp focus in the Assembly.
Causes Behind the Increasing Forest Fires
Environmental experts and opposition leaders have expressed concerns over the growing wildfire crisis and the lack of effective mitigation strategies. Some of the key causes identified include:
· Rising Temperatures: Global warming and climate change have led to longer dry seasons, increasing the likelihood of wildfires.
· Human Encroachment: Unauthorized settlements and agricultural expansion into forested areas have raised fire risks.
· Illegal Activities: Poaching, logging, and deliberate burning of forests for land conversion contribute to frequent wildfires.
· Lack of Surveillance and Early Detection: Many fires go unnoticed until they become uncontrollable.
Notable Wildfire Incidents in Odisha
Several major wildfire incidents in Odisha have drawn nationwide attention in recent years:
ü Similipal Forest Fire (2021): One of the worst fires in the state’s history, it spread across the Similipal National Park, home to rare flora and fauna, endangering wildlife and biodiversity.
ü Kandhamal Forest Fires (2023): Large-scale fires in the region led to massive loss of green cover, forcing wildlife to migrate and creating air pollution hazards.
ü Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary Blaze (2022): Wildfires damaged significant portions of the sanctuary, threatening its ecological balance.
Government’s Response and Future Plans
Acknowledging the severity of the crisis, Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia outlined the government’s proposed measures to prevent and control wildfires:
ü Advanced Surveillance Systems: Implementing satellite monitoring and drone technology to detect and control fires early.
ü Strengthening Fire Management Teams: Deploying more forest rangers and equipping them with modern firefighting tools.
ü Community Engagement: Educating local communities on fire prevention and involving them in conservation efforts.
Increased Patrolling and Law Enforcement: Cracking down on illegal deforestation and human encroachments that contribute to wildfires.
The Urgent Need for Action
With over 54,000 hectares of forest lost in four years, Odisha is facing an escalating environmental crisis. If preventive measures are not effectively implemented, wildfires will continue to ravage the state’s forests, leading to biodiversity loss, increased air pollution, and climate instability. Strengthening fire management efforts and addressing human-induced causes will be crucial in safeguarding Odisha’s green cover for future generations.
(With inputs from agencies)
