The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) has issued a clear warning that strict action will be taken against individuals found deliberately setting forest fires. Authorities have also appealed to the public to cooperate by reporting fire incidents at the earliest to help prevent large-scale damage to forest resources and wildlife.As part of its prevention strategy, the department has created 20,461 fire lines across forest areas to help control and contain fires. Surveillance has been significantly enhanced with the installation of cameras in forest regions of Similipal and Rourkela. In addition, mini drones are being deployed at sensitive locations to monitor fire-prone areas in real time, PCCF K. Murugesan said.To facilitate quick reporting, the Forest Department has urged citizens to immediately inform authorities by calling the dedicated forest fire helpline number18003457158upon spotting any fire in forest areas.
