Wildfires In Nashik Surge To 542 Cases In 2024; Accidental Fires In Forests Could Lead To Jail Time

While efforts to increase forest cover are not yielding the desired results, incidents of artificial forest fires in Nashik city and the district have surged over the last two years. Illegal activities such as alcohol consumption, smoking, and lighting fires for gatherings in hilly areas have led to significant forest damage. According to forest department sources, strict action will be taken under the Forest Act against individuals found responsible for setting fires. Carrying inflammable materials or smoking in forested areas is a serious offense. In 2024, 542 wildfire incidents were reported in Nashik, compared to 414 in 2023.

The summer season had not even begun when a major fire broke out three weeks ago in the forests of the Forest Development Corporation on Trirashmi Leni Hill. A similar fire occurred on Sula Mountain near Dari-Matori, causing extensive damage. Forest department personnel from Forest Development Corporation and Nashik’s regional forest division rushed to the site to control the flames. The fire affected approximately two hectares of forest land in the Trirashmi hill area and had spread up to the hilltop.

Fire control lines

To prevent such incidents, fire control lines are implemented, where forest officials and staff burn specific areas in a controlled manner. This method prevents the spread of fire beyond a designated limit and is a crucial forest protection strategy.

Forests play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity and supporting all living beings. The destruction of forests due to wildfires disrupts ecological balance and affects rainfall patterns, leading to droughts or heavy rainfall. The forest fire season lasts from February 15 to June 15. While naturally occurring wildfires are rare in Nashik, man-made fires have increased significantly in the last two years.

Setting fires in forests is a serious offense under the Forest Act, 1927. As per Section 26, the forest department can file a case and arrest the accused. Violators may face a minimum of one year in prison, along with a fine.

Additionally, forest officers and staff are legally required to assist local citizens and bystanders in firefighting efforts. Failure to do so can lead to legal action against them.

Meanwhile, Vishal Mali, Divisional Forest Officer, said, "Entering forest areas without permission is already an offense. Carrying inflammable materials or deliberately setting fires is a punishable crime under the Forest Act. Violators will be arrested and prosecuted, as forest fires threaten wildlife and biodiversity."

Common causes of forest fires

Burning leaves under trees to collect Mahua flowers 

Herdsmen setting fire to forests to create fresh grazing land for their cattle

Reckless behaviour by amateur tourists in hilly and reserve forest areas

Alcohol consumption and smoking, which pose a significant fire hazard