ADC Medziphema issues fire prevention directive

DIMAPUR — In view of the prevailing dry weather conditions, which are likely to significantly increase the risk of forest fires, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Medziphema, P James Swu, has issued a directive to strictly observe necessary precautions to prevent outbreak of fire in forest areas, jhum lands, and surrounding landscapes.

According to a DIPR report, forest fires cause severe damage to forests, wildlife, public property, and also pose a serious threat to human life and the environment.

All offices, institutes, villages, wards, landowners, farmers and the general public have been directed to strictly comply with the following instructions:

* Institutes/offices are advised to construct and establish wide firebreaks (10-30 meters) by clearing dry vegetation, leaves and debris around the campus, hostels and key infrastructures.

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* Organise prescribed burns during safe weather conditions (non-windy, high humidity days) under expert supervision to eliminate excess dry fuel.

* Institutes/offices to train staffs, students and hostellers on fire safety, prevention and evacuation protocols.

* Set up fire watch teams during peak fire season (January to March).

* Maintain fire fighting equipments including self activated fire extinguishing ball across the campus/offices.

* Put up a fence to prevent infiltration of outsiders into the campus.

* Police to patrol the sensitive areas as and when possible.

* Village councils to create awareness on forest fires within the village jurisdiction.

* No burning of forest, grass, jhum fields or dry vegetation shall be carried out during windy conditions.