Jumla Forest Office Equips Security Forces for Wildfire Control and Disaster Management

Kali Bahadur Pariyar
Jumla. The Division Forest Office, Jumla, has handed over necessary materials to the three security agencies in the district to make wildfire control and disaster management more effective. During a program organized on Friday coinciding with the Forest Fire Control Week, essential equipment was provided to the Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and the disaster management unit of the Nepali Army.

Chief District Officer (CDO) Deepak Paudel, while formally handing over the materials, stated that coordination and preparation are indispensable for controlling wildfires. According to Bharat Bahadur Budhathapa, Chief of the Division Forest Office, Jumla, the equipment was provided targeting the security agencies who are on the frontline during wildfire and arson incidents.

According to him, the materials were distributed with the belief that they would assist in risk reduction despite limited resources. He stated, "Special protective clothing and iron tools used in wildfire control have been handed over."

A total of 34 items were distributed: 12 sets to the Nepali Army, 12 sets to the Armed Police Force, and 10 sets to the Nepal Police disaster unit. CDO Paudel noted that such initiatives are crucial for strengthening coordination and the immediate response system among all agencies in disaster management.

He emphasized the need to further strengthen coordination among local levels, security agencies, and the community in controlling sensitive disasters like wildfires. Awareness programs, orientations, and risk reduction activities are also being conducted across the district as part of the Forest Fire Control Week.

It is expected that such programs will increase awareness at the community level and help reduce potential damage. The risk of forest fires in Jumla increases every year with the summer season. Stakeholders are confident that preparations undertaken in time this year will facilitate wildfire control.