197 Fires Burn 378 Hectares of Ramnagar Forest Since 2020‑21

A total of 197 forest fires have broken out across the Ramnagar forest area since the 2020‑21 period, consuming an estimated 378 hectares of greenery. The majority of these incidents, about 90 to 95 percent, are believed to be deliberately set by people, according to officials. The rugged, hilly terrain combined with a limited network of roads has complicated efforts to contain the blazes and protect the affected ecosystems.

The forest region, situated on the outskirts of Chandigarh, is characterized by steep slopes and dense vegetation, making access difficult for fire‑fighting teams. With fewer paved roads and limited vehicle availability, response times have been longer, adding pressure on the district forest office.

The DFO of Ramnagar has highlighted that the difficult topography, coupled with the scarcity of well‑maintained pathways, hampers the deployment of equipment and the coordination of personnel. “The terrain forces teams to navigate steep inclines on foot, which slows down suppression work,” the official explained, noting that the lack of infrastructure adds a logistical challenge to every operation.

While the exact number of incidents remains at 197, each fire has contributed to a cumulative loss of forest cover. The 378‑hectare figure represents a significant portion of the local woodland, raising concerns about biodiversity loss and the long‑term health of the ecosystem. Native species that rely on this habitat may face disruption, and the cumulative impact could affect water regulation and soil stability in the region.

Human activity is identified as the primary driver of the fires. Although specific motives are not detailed, the high proportion of intentional ignitions suggests patterns of land clearing, agriculture, or other practices that involve fire. Authorities have not released a definitive list of responsible parties, but the emphasis on human causation underscores the need for awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement.

In response to the growing number of fires, the forest department has intensified patrols and monitoring efforts. Teams are deployed more frequently, and additional training is being provided to staff on rapid response techniques suitable for hilly environments. However, the limited road infrastructure remains a bottleneck, restricting the speed at which resources can reach the fire sites.

Local residents have observed the increasing frequency of smoke and occasional flames on the hillsides. While specific community reactions are not documented, the visible changes in the landscape have sparked broader discussions about forest management and the need for sustainable practices. The situation reflects a wider trend of forest stress in the region, prompting calls for collaborative action between government agencies, NGOs, and the community.

The challenges faced in Ramnagar are not unique; many forest areas in the foothills of the Himalayas confront similar obstacles, including steep terrain, sparse road networks, and the risk of human‑induced fires. Addressing these issues requires a combination of improved infrastructure, community engagement, and effective enforcement of fire prevention regulations.

As the forest department continues its assessment, the data collected since 2020‑21 will inform future planning. The focus will likely shift toward preventive measures, such as awareness drives, controlled burns under supervision, and the development of additional access routes to facilitate quicker response times. The ultimate goal is to reduce the incidence of fires and protect the ecological value of the Ramnagar forest for generations to come.

Source: Hindustan Times