KATHMANDU: A dire situation has unfolded in Banke as extensive wildfires have ravaged an area spanning 5,133 hectares, including numerous community forests and the Chakla forest. According to the District Forest Office, a distressing number of 76 community forests, as well as the Chakla Forest, have been devoured by the fire, bringing a bleak atmosphere to the region, which is home to approximately 100 community forests.
Birendra Rokka, serving as both Assistant Forest Officer and Information Officer of the District Forest Office, reveals that concerted efforts, including the deployment of fire-fighting vehicles manned by eight firefighters, have been crucial in containing the inferno in most areas. To prevent further spread, authorities have constructed 30 kilometers of fire lines in the Chakla forest and an additional 20 kilometers in various community forests.
The lack of rainfall, prolonged over time, worsened by human negligence is cited as the reason behind the ignition. Unfortunately, the impact of the blaze goes beyond vegetation destruction, leading to the loss of numerous wildlife species including rabbits, snakes, and various birds. Furthermore, the wildfires have led to human casualties, with Assistant Chief District Officer Jorasingh Majhi confirming 105 fire-related incidents across different localities of Banke, resulting in one fatality and six injuries, alongside the demise of 104 cattle.
Substantial economic repercussions are evident, as property damages totaling Rs 17.7 million have been estimated from incidents in Narainapur, Raptisonari, Janaki, and Nepalgunj.
