NDRRMA Identifies Nine Districts at High Risk of Forest Fires

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) has identified nine districts across the country as being at high risk of forest fires, underscoring the growing threat posed by seasonal dryness and rising temperatures.

According to the Authority, the following districts have been categorized as high-risk: Banke, Bardiya, Chitwan, Dang, Kailali, Kanchanpur, Parsa, Salyan, and Surkhet. The NDRRMA noted that these areas are particularly vulnerable due to climatic conditions, forest density and recurring fire incidents recorded in previous years.

In addition to the high-risk districts, several other areas have also been identified as facing forest fire risks. These include Achham, Arghakhanchi, Bara, Dadeldhura, Doti, Gorkha, Jajarkot, Kapilbastu, Makawanpur, Nawalpur, Pyuthan, Sindhuli and Udayapur.

The Authority stated that a range of preventive and preparedness measures have been put in place to mitigate the risk of forest fires. These include enhanced preparedness planning, strengthened surveillance mechanisms and the operation of early warning systems in vulnerable districts.

NDRRMA further emphasized that the effectiveness of these measures depends on strong cooperation and coordination among the three tiers of government—federal, provincial and local levels. Efforts are being made to ensure that response mechanisms are more effective and result-oriented through joint action and information sharing.

The Authority has also urged local governments, community forest user groups and the general public to remain vigilant during the fire-prone season and to promptly report any incidents to concerned authorities. It warned that forest fires not only cause environmental damage but also pose serious risks to human health, wildlife and livelihoods.