Forest fires in the Indian Central Himalaya: major drivers, implications, and mitigation measures

Abstract

ABSTRACT Forest fires pose a significant threat in the Central Himalaya due to both natural and human factors. This study investigates key drivers, consequences, and mitigation measures. Data on 2022 forest fire incidents, affected areas, and economic losses were collected from the State Forest Department, Dehradun, and analyzed using statistical methods. The 2022 forest fire areas were mapped using data from the USGS and NASA FIRMS portals, revealing highly sensitive zones in river valleys and mid-altitudes below 1800 m, covering 13% of the total forest area (approximately 40,000 ha). These regions primarily host monsoon deciduous and flammable pine forests. Recent years have witnessed a notable increase in fire frequency and intensity, attributed to warming river valleys, middle altitudes, and dry climate spells during the fire season. This pioneering study recommends risk reduction strategies, including managing dry pine leaves, forest replacement, constructing fire lines, and providing fire control training to rural communities. Adopting these measures can effectively mitigate the escalating threat of forest fires in the Central Himalaya.