Odisha has suffered severe forest loss due to widespread wildfires, with nearly 3,000 hectares burned in the past three months alone. Over the last four years, a staggering 53,820 hectares of forest cover have been destroyed, raising urgent concerns about environmental protection.
Forest and Environment Minister Ganesh Ram Singh Khuntia presented these alarming figures in the Odisha Assembly on Tuesday, highlighting the growing wildfire crisis.
According to his report:
2021: Wildfires destroyed 28,569 hectares of forest.
2022: The damage was reduced to 8,438 hectares, but fires remained a persistent threat.
2023: The affected area rose again to 9,711 hectares, signaling a troubling trend.
These statistics were shared in response to a query from BJD MLA Ramesh Behera during the Assembly session.
Rising Concerns Over Forest Protection
With over 54,000 hectares lost in just four years, environmentalists and opposition leaders are questioning the effectiveness of the state’s fire prevention strategies. Experts suggest that rising temperatures, human encroachment, and illegal activities could be key drivers behind the increasing wildfire incidents.
Government’s Response and Future Action
Minister Khuntia acknowledged the gravity of the situation and outlined the government’s plans to strengthen wildfire prevention measures, including: Deploying advanced surveillance systems for early fire detection.
Enhancing fire management teams in vulnerable forest areas.
Increasing patrolling and community engagement to prevent human-induced fires.
As Odisha faces escalating wildfire threats, stronger action and preventive strategies are essential to safeguard its forests and biodiversity.
