An awareness programme focused on Forest Fire Prevention took place at the Maha Area Chiefs Association Hall in Panchai, Chandel district, organized by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Chandel. The event featured participation from village chiefs, representatives from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Self-Help Groups, and approximately 150 local villagers. Notable attendees included Francis Thamdok, President of CNPO, serving as the chief guest, along with Dr. N. Munal Meitei, DFO Chandel, who acted as the functional president, and other distinguished guests such as J.S. Angam, Chairman of the Maha Area Chiefs Association, and RFO Chandel N. Deepa Devi.
Dr. N. Munal Meitei highlighted that Manipur has a significant forest cover of 75.46% across its geographical expanse, while Chandel district ranks second in the state with about 1,815 sq. km of its 2,100 sq. km area covered by forests. However, he voiced concerns over increasing threats to these forests stemming from practices like shifting cultivation, illegal logging, and particularly forest fires. A report from Global Forest Watch indicated that the district had lost roughly 44 sq. km of forest cover by 2024, primarily due to human-induced activities such as careless burning and negligence. Dr. Munal underscored the ecological and economic importance of forest preservation and the necessity for awareness regarding fire prevention.
He urged local leaders and village chiefs to disseminate knowledge within their communities and take stringent action against those responsible for starting forest fires, advocating for safer alternatives to burning practices. In his remarks, CNPO President Francis Thamdok emphasized the adage “Prevention is better than cure,” remarking on the necessity of vigilance during the dry season as forest fires can lead to irreparable harm once ignited. He expressed that village chiefs would fully support the Forest Department, which regularly provides guidance and advisories.
Thamdok outlined the multifaceted repercussions of forest fires, including destruction of forest areas, harm to wildlife, disruption of ecological balance, degradation of soil fertility, and a significant contribution to global warming. Emphasizing that the responsibility of preventing forest fires lies collectively with all, he called for active participation from the community in protecting the forests of Chandel. The programme concluded with a resolute appeal for public cooperation to safeguard the district’s valuable forest resources.
