Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has directed the recruitment of 1,000 new forest guards to strengthen forest fire prevention and management across the state.
The decision was taken during a high-level review meeting held at the Chief Minister’s residence, where forest fire control measures, monsoon preparedness, drinking water supply, and health services were discussed in detail.
One-Hour Response Rule for Forest Fire Incidents
The Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure that response teams reach forest fire-affected sites within one hour of receiving information.
He stressed strict enforcement measures against individuals responsible for damaging forest resources and called for stronger on-ground monitoring systems.
Adoption of “Shitlakhet Model” for Fire Control
Pushkar Singh Dhami directed officials to implement the “Shitlakhet Model” across Uttarakhand for more effective forest fire management.
Key measures include:
- Construction of small water ponds near fire lines
- Preparation of detailed fire prevention action plans
- Proper equipment for firefighting teams
- Expansion of mobile alert systems for real-time fire warnings
He also called for widespread public awareness campaigns to reduce forest fire incidents.
Strengthening Forest Protection and Van Panchayat Support
The Chief Minister emphasized that village committees and Van Panchayats should receive timely and norm-based budget allocations for fire prevention activities.
He also highlighted the need to address rising human-wildlife conflict cases by ensuring adequate veterinary support in forest divisions.
Drinking Water, Power Supply, and Monsoon Preparedness
In view of the summer season, Pushkar Singh Dhami directed officials to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply across Uttarakhand.
Instructions include:
- Availability of water tankers in all regions
- Rapid repair of damaged pipelines
- Special attention to pilgrimage and tourist areas
He also stressed uninterrupted electricity supply and increased power generation capacity.
With the monsoon approaching, all departments have been asked to complete preparedness measures on time, while district officials will conduct field inspections in vulnerable areas.
Health and Hospital Safety Measures
During the Health Department review, the Chief Minister directed:
- Fire safety audits in all hospitals
- Improved cleanliness standards in healthcare facilities
- Better tracking of pregnant women during monsoon
- Strengthened transport arrangements for emergency deliveries
He also emphasized promotion of institutional deliveries across the state.
Safety Measures for Char Dham Yatra Pilgrims
The Chief Minister instructed that medically unfit pilgrims during screening should be advised against undertaking the Char Dham Yatra, prioritizing safety during the pilgrimage season.
With a multi-sector focus on forest fire control, disaster preparedness, and public safety, the Uttarakhand government aims to strengthen its emergency response systems ahead of the monsoon and peak summer risks.
About Uttarakhand Forest Management Efforts
Uttarakhand continues to face recurring forest fire challenges due to its hilly terrain and dry seasons. The state government is now expanding manpower, technology use, and community participation to build a stronger and faster forest protection system.
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