Lucknow: Under the directives of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department has completed comprehensive preparations to prevent forest fires during the upcoming summer season. The state has established 116 fire control cells operating 24/7, launched public helplines, and conducted mock drills in highly sensitive forest areas to ensure safety for both forests and wildlife.
24/7 Fire Control Cells Across the State
The Forest Department has set up fire control cells at headquarters, divisional, zonal, and range levels to monitor and prevent forest fires. In total, 116 fire control cells are operational across the state.
These cells function in three shifts:
- Morning: 6 AM to 2 PM
- Afternoon: 2 PM to 10 PM
- Night: 10 PM to 6 AM
All information received about potential fire incidents is recorded in registers and addressed immediately to prevent delays in response. The cells also coordinate with divisional and district-level officers to ensure rapid action during emergencies.
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Public Helpline Numbers for Forest Fire Alerts
To involve citizens in forest fire prevention, the Forest Department has issued helpline numbers in Lucknow:
- 0522-2977310
- 0522-2204676
- 9651368060
- 7017112077
Citizens can report fire incidents or provide relevant information. Local helpline numbers are also available in all districts, enabling prompt communication between residents and forest officials.
Additionally, over 3,792 officials, staff, and citizens have registered on the Forest Survey of India’s fire alert portal (fsi.nic.in) to receive real-time forest fire alerts and updates.
Mock Drills and Preparations in High-Risk Areas
The forest fire season in Uttar Pradesh is considered active until 15 June 2026. Based on previous incidents, several districts and reserves have been classified as highly sensitive and moderately sensitive, including:
- Highly Sensitive: Chitrakoot, Sonbhadra, Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, Katarniaghat Wildlife Division
- Moderately Sensitive: Bahraich, Maharajganj, Dudhwa National Park, North & South Kheri, Balrampur, Saharanpur, Bijnor, Gonda, Gorakhpur, Mirzapur, Chandauli, Lalitpur, Banda, Hamirpur, Varanasi, and Kaimur Wildlife Division
Mock drills have already been conducted in these areas, and district-level committees chaired by District Magistrates have been formed in sensitive districts to monitor forest fire preparedness.
Ensuring Safety for Wildlife and Forest Resources
In addition to fire prevention, the Forest Department has taken measures to ensure wildlife safety:
- Water supply has been secured by constructing new waterholes and repairing old ones, ensuring regular availability of drinking water.
- Watchtowers are being constructed and maintained to monitor forest areas.
- Rapid reporting mechanisms from divisional levels to headquarters are in place to respond immediately to fire incidents.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has emphasized proactive measures, instructing the department to remain alert throughout the summer to prevent forest fires and protect the state’s rich biodiversity.
This preparation reflects Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to forest conservation, public safety, and wildlife protection, ensuring that forests remain secure during the peak summer season.
