Dharamshala, June 4
A sharp rise in temperatures across the Kangra Valley has led to a significant increase in forest fires, with more than 33 cases reported in the Dharamshala Forest Division over the past 10 days. The fires have caused extensive damage to forest resources, affecting plantation areas and resulting in substantial financial losses to the Forest Department.
According to officials, forest fires have impacted nearly 66 hectares of land, including more than 39 hectares of plantation area. The Forest Department estimates losses exceeding ₹21 lakh due to the incidents.
Speaking on the matter, DFO Dharamshala Amit Sharma said the persistent rise in temperatures has been a major factor behind the increase in forest fire cases. He noted that the department is closely monitoring affected areas and conducting detailed assessments of the damage.
Sharma explained that forest fire damage is generally evaluated in two stages. The first assessment is conducted immediately after a fire is extinguished to determine the initial extent of the damage. However, because some vegetation affected by summer fires often regenerates during the monsoon season, a second, final assessment is conducted after the rains to determine the actual long-term impact.
The DFO further stated that additional monitoring is undertaken in cases involving larger plantation areas. If more than five hectares of plantation land are affected, a third round of monitoring is conducted at the DFO level. In cases where the affected plantation area exceeds 10 hectares, the third assessment is conducted by the Conservator of Forests to ensure an accurate evaluation of losses and recovery.
Forest officials have urged residents and visitors to exercise caution during the summer months, as dry weather and rising temperatures continue to increase the risk of forest fires across the region.
The Forest Department remains on alert as temperatures continue to rise, with efforts focused on preventing further incidents and minimizing damage to the region’s ecological resources.
