Odisha gears up for comprehensive forest fire prevention initiatives during summer

BHUBANESWAR: The Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department of Odisha Government has launched a series of proactive forest fire prevention programs aimed at minimizing fire-related risks and ensuring the protection of the state’s rich forest resources.
The government has prepared district-specific action plans for forest fire prevention and control.
fire awareness meetings, training sessions, and mock drills have been conducted in all forest blocks to equip personnel with the necessary skills to manage forest fires effectively.
Besides, new fire lines have been created, while existing ones are being maintained to act as barriers to prevent the spread of fires.
Fire prevention teams are well-supported with vehicles and essential firefighting equipment, and a 24×7 control room has been set up at both the State Forest Department Headquarters and divisional levels to respond promptly to fire outbreaks. Forest officers, along with other departmental staff, have been registered for real-time fire alerts through the Forest Survey of India (FSI) portal and are using the Odisha Forest Surveillance and Management (OFSM) mobile app to monitor fire situations.
Furthermore, cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI) cameras have been installed in Similipal, ensuring continuous and effective monitoring of potential fire threats.