Bhubaneswar, March 19: The Odisha government has initiated a comprehensive program aimed at preventing forest fires during the upcoming summer season, said Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Minister Ganesh Ram Sing Khuntia in the assembly today.
He stated that the government has developed district-specific action plans for all regions to ensure effective fire prevention and management.
To increase awareness and enhance preparedness, the department has organized fire awareness meetings, training workshops, and mock drills across all forest blocks. In addition, new fire lines have been established, while existing ones are being regularly maintained to help contain fires.
The department has also deployed fire prevention teams in every forest block, equipping them with necessary fire safety tools and kits. Forest officers and staff members have been registered on the Forest Survey of India (FSI) portal to receive timely fire alerts, which can be responded to through the Odisha Forest Surveillance Management (OFSM) mobile app.
A 24/7 control room has been set up at the State Forest Department Headquarters and divisional offices to monitor and respond quickly to any forest fire incidents. In recognition of their efforts, villages that have effectively implemented forest fire prevention measures are being rewarded with cash prizes.
Additionally, in a bid to improve fire detection and monitoring, Artificial Intelligence (AI) cameras have been installed in Similipal to provide enhanced surveillance.
