Goemkarponn desk
VALPOI: Minister for Forest Vishwajit Rane said that as of 8 am this morning, 3 minor fires were active in the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary.
“28 fires were doused yesterday. For a minor fire at Satrem and Derodem, a Navy AC has been launched at 9:15 am, and an aerial recce will be carried out by IAF helicopter to ascertain the fire status across the state,” said Rane.
He further said that as per requirement, a helicopter from Indian Navy and another from Indian Air Force will take up sorties to douse the fire and close monitoring and supervision in all areas is being carried out by Forest Frontline staff.
He stated that he will not allow the destruction of the Mhadei forest; it is the collective responsibility of the department as well as the citizens of the state to protect and conserve wildlife.
He stated that the ministry has also taken aid from the Defence Ministry for in-principle approval of additional helicopters. It appears prima facie to be a man-made incident, he further stated.
On the Sarzora fire incident, Rane said that he had notified the team from the Forest Department about the major fire at Sarzora Hill.
“I’ve spoken with PCCF Saurabh Kumar, and together we’re developing an action plan to ensure the fire is put out as soon as possible,” he added.
