Goemkarponn Desk
PANAJI: Ahead of upcoming celebrations such as Shimgostav and Holi, the forest department has banned open burning in the forest areas. However, they have also stated that worshipping or conducting rituals in forests or protected areas could potentially result in wildfires.
In a circular, the Deputy Conservator of Forests (wildlife and ecotourism-North) has cautioned that violators will face consequences under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. For the purpose of preventing forest fires, the department has released Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), which must be closely followed.
Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity that might result in deliberate or unintentional forest fires by the department. The deputy conservator Prem Kumar stated in the circular that, “with holiday celebrations like Shimgostav and Holi approaching, it is noted from past instances that public enter into forest areas/protected areas for worshipping or performing rituals which could be potential threats resulting in forest fires.”
He emphasized that, in accordance with the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972, entering protected areas carrying any combustible material or starting a fire in any manner is illegal.
“Any form of open burning, such as campfires, debris burning, or the discarding of lit cigarettes, agarbatis, or any other ritual material that could cause an unattended fire in a forest area, will be subject to legal consequences,” he declared.
According to the department, smoking is not permitted in forested areas and cigarette butts must be properly disposed of in approved containers; in the event that these rules are broken, offenders will be prosecuted as required by law.
