Unseasonal forest fires are burning across the Himalayan regions of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir. For decades, these forests experienced a predictable fire season, beginning in late spring and early summer. However, a shift in this pattern is now being observed, with increased fire activity occurring during the winter months.
Shifting Ecological Patterns
Forest officials and scientists report that the current intensity and frequency of winter fires are no longer considered anomalies. Amit Kumar Verma, a senior scientist at Dehradun’s Forest Research Institute, stated that “Forest fires are part of a natural cycle, but climate variability is compressing and intensifying that cycle.” He is currently involved in a five-year study examining changing forest fire patterns across the country.
Data from the Forest Survey of India (FSI) indicates that Uttarakhand has experienced the highest number of fire alerts since the start of the winter wildfire season on November 1st. December, typically a month with low fire activity, was the most active month in the state in nearly three years. The dryness is a key factor, with a senior official noting, “We have had a completely rainless December. Moisture levels in forest floors are very low.”
Impact Across the Region
The unusual fire activity extends beyond Uttarakhand. Himachal Pradesh has also experienced a lack of rainfall since early October, and snowfall has been minimal in key apple-growing regions. Fires have been reported in Shimla, Rampur, Mandi, and within the Great Himalayan National Park-Kullu. Similarly, Kashmir’s forests are facing a significant snowfall deficit – nearly 40% after three consecutive dry winters – leading to increased flammability, according to Mudasir Mehmood, DFO Awantipora.
A forest guard died in December while battling a blaze in Anantnag district, Kashmir. A fire in Poonch triggered landmine explosions along the Line of Control on January 12th, as flames spread into mined areas.
Contributing Factors
While dryness is a primary driver, officials cite other contributing factors, including stubble burning, biomass burning, and intentional fires set by villagers to promote grass growth for livestock. Poaching and attempts to drive wildlife from cover are also suspected causes. Former Uttarakhand head of forest force Jairaj explained that fires are rarely caused by a single factor, and that climate change exacerbates the risk, turning even small sparks into large blazes. The decline of traditional forest management practices, such as grazing and community clearing, has also led to an accumulation of flammable material on the forest floor.
Residents are already experiencing the impact of these fires. Sarvani Devi, a 61-year-old resident of Jyotirmath, expressed her fear that the fires could destroy everything, stating, “Somehow, these mountains, where we have lived all our lives, don’t feel as pleasant anymore.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing these unseasonal fires?
Climate variability, specifically a lack of rainfall and snowfall, is a primary driver. This creates extremely dry conditions, making forests more susceptible to fire. Other factors include human activities like stubble burning and intentional fires.
Which regions are most affected?
Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir are currently experiencing the most significant fire activity. Uttarakhand has recorded the highest number of fire alerts in the country since November 1st.
Are these fires impacting local communities?
Yes, residents are expressing fear and concern about the potential for widespread damage. A forest guard died fighting a fire in Kashmir, and a fire in Poonch triggered landmine explosions.
As conditions remain dry and traditional forest management practices continue to evolve, it is possible that these unseasonal fires could become more frequent and intense in the Himalayan region. Continued monitoring and proactive mitigation strategies may be crucial in managing this growing threat.
