Uttarakhand's Forests in Flames: Hundreds of Hectares Reduced to Ashes

Uttarakhand is facing serious forest fires, with hundreds of hectares of land burnt down. Many districts like Dehradun, Pauri, Rudraprayag, Almora, Chamoli, and others are badly affected. In the last few months, over 11,000 forest fire cases have been reported. The fires are happening because of less rain, hotter temperatures, and dry weather. The El Niño weather effect has made things worse by changing rainfall patterns.

Another big problem is the lack of proper resources. The forest department doesn’t have enough fire-fighting equipment, vehicles, or safety tools. Many workers don’t even have insurance or proper support, making it hard for them to stop the fires.

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has asked officials to make an urgent plan to control the fires. Senior officers are being made in-charge of each district to improve the situation. The government is also encouraging local people to help in managing the fires.

These forest fires are harming not just trees, but also animals, plants, and water sources. Strong steps are needed quickly to protect Uttarakhand’s forests and wildlife.