An awareness programme on Forest Fire Prevention was held at the hall of the Maha Area Chiefs Association in Panchai, Chandel district. The programme was organized by the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Chandel. The event witnessed participation of village chiefs, CSO representatives, Self-Help Groups, and around 150 villagers. The programme was attended by President of CNPO Francis Thamdok as the chief guest, DFO Chandel Dr. N. Munal Meitei as the functional president, Chairman of Maha Area Chiefs Association J.S. Angam, and RFO Chandel N. Deepa Devi as distinguished guests. Speaking at the programme, Dr. N. Munal Meitei stated that Manipur has 75.46% of its total geographical area under forest cover. Chandel district, with a total geographical area of about 2,100 sq. km, has approximately 1,815 sq. km under forest cover, making it the second highest forest-covered district in the state.
However, he expressed concern over the increasing threats to forests due to shifting cultivation, illegal logging, and forest fires. Citing a report of Global Forest Watch, he mentioned that Chandel district lost around 44 sq. km of forest cover up to 2024. He further stated that forest fires, often caused by human activities including careless burning and negligence, have become one of the major reasons for forest degradation. Considering the immense ecological value and economic importance of forests, the awareness programme was organised to promote forest fire prevention.
Dr. Munal appealed to village chiefs and local leaders to spread awareness in their respective villages and to take strict action against individuals responsible for causing forest fires. He also urged people to adopt safer alternatives and preventive measures instead of resorting to burning practices.
In his address, CNPO President Francis Thamdok emphasized that “Prevention is better than cure” when it comes to forest fires. He stated that people must remain alert during the dry season, as once a fire spreads, it causes irreversible damage. He assured that village chiefs would extend full cooperation to the Forest Department, as the department provides timely advisories and guidance. He added that forest fires not only destroy forests but also harm wildlife, disturb ecological balance, degrade land fertility, and contribute significantly to global warming. Therefore, preventing forest fires is a collective responsibility, and everyone must actively participate in safeguarding the forests of Chandel. The programme concluded with a strong appeal to the public to work together to prevent forest fires and protect the rich forest resources of the district.