Jamshedpur: 24 hectares of Dalma Forest burnt in three days

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, April 24: The alarming surge in forest fires within the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary has prompted concerns as incidents continue to escalate. Forest department records reveal that in April alone, a staggering 24 hectares of forest land has been engulfed in flames. The repercussions of these fires are dire, with significant harm inflicted on the flora and fauna inhabiting the area, including damage to small plants.

In response to the crisis, the Forest Department has initiated efforts to seek expert guidance on land fertilization and reforestation strategies for the upcoming monsoon and rainy seasons. Comprehensive data detailing the locations and extent of fire damage has been compiled, facilitating informed decision-making and resource allocation.

Acknowledging the critical need for heightened awareness and preventative measures, the Forest Department has shared vital information with its headquarters and forest officials. Villagers are actively being educated about fire prevention, underscoring the collaborative approach necessary to safeguard forested areas. Given that investigations suggest human involvement in the fires, awareness campaigns targeting local communities are being intensified, with the assistance of voluntary organizations.

Several areas within the Dalma forest have recently fallen victim to fires, resulting in extensive damage across various locations. On April 20th, Bhadudih Koira witnessed a fire that engulfed 2.3 hectares of land over a span of two hours. The following day, on April 21st, fires raged through Bhadudih Koira again, this time consuming 3 hectares in two hours and 3.4 hectares in four and a half hours. Meanwhile, in Mango Mirzadih Haludbani, a fire spanning 1.5 hectares raged for three hours on April 21st. On April 20th, Patmada Gobarghusi lost 1.2 hectares to fire in just one hour, while Patmada Jhunjhuka saw 1.6 hectares burned over two hours. Another fire in Patmada Gobarghusi on April 21st claimed 1.8 hectares in two hours. Similarly, Bhadudih Beldih lost 1.3 hectares in two hours on April 21st, and Bhadudih Kuiyani suffered a blaze that consumed 2.8 hectares in three hours on the same day. On April 21st, Mango Mirzadih Gerua experienced a significant fire, scorching 3 hectares of land over six hours. Further damage occurred on April 22nd, with Bhadudih Beldih Andharjore losing 1.2 hectares in two and a half hours, and Patmada Gobarghusi facing another fire that burned through 1.5 hectares in one and a half hours, followed by 1.8 hectares in two hours and 2 hectares in two hours. Chakulia Khokhro witnessed fires on April 22nd, with 1.5 hectares affected in one and a half hours, followed by another blaze consuming the same area in two hours, along with another 1.5-hectare fire lasting two hours. Finally, on April 23rd, Mango Baliguma reported a fire that ravaged 1.6 hectares over a four-hour period.