Saturday, 18 MAY 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
The State government provided explanations on various aspects regarding forest fires in Uttarakhand during the hearing on the matter in the Supreme Court on Friday. On the court’s directions, the chief secretary and principal chief conservator of forest were also present during the hearing. The report submitted by the chief secretary’s office in the court stated that the 2023-24 CAMPA fund amount was spent on various measures to mitigate forest fires. Out of the Rs 10 crore approved under CAMPA for 2024-25, a sum of Rs 5.25 crore was issued for measures to fight forest fires. The remaining Rs 4.75 crore has been allocated for use in the winters before the 2025 forest fire season, the State’s representatives informed.The State further informed the apex court about the various budgetary and other measures taken to check forest fires. Immediate steps are being taken to fill the vacant posts in the Forest department at the regional level. The Uttarakhand Public Service Commission and Uttarakhand Subordinate Service Selection Commission are working in this direction, the State representatives stated. The court was informed in detail about the steps taken by the government to prevent forest fires caused due to pirul (pine needles). The State government has notified a policy for generation of electricity from Pirul and other biomass. The government claimed that it is paying Rs three per kilogramme for Pirul to encourage the locals to collect and provide the pine needles. Regarding the deputation of officials on election duty, the State informed the court that none of the local officials and senior IFS officers of wildlife sanctuaries and national parks were deputed on election duty. According to the State government officials, the apex court was satisfied with the State government’s response in the court and directed that all the parties involved should sit together and plan a strategy for the future. The matter will be taken up for hearing next in September.
