VALPOI
Stating that strict action would be taken against those responsible for the forest fires in the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has also warned that forest department staff could face suspension if they have been found irresponsible in handling the situation.
Sawant chaired a high-level meeting of State Disaster Management Authority along with Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane, Poriem MLA Deviya Rane, government officials and officials of the forest, police and fire to review the fire situation in Sattari area.
Later speaking to media persons, Sawant stated that government authorities along with the support of locals are working to get the situation in complete control.
“I have also spoken to navy officials for continuing support. Inquiry has been ordered, any mischief/misconduct found will be strictly dealt with,” he said.
He stated that the State has been witnessing fires in cashew plantations and forests for the past few days, and Navy’s support has been sought in controlling the fire in two-three places. “But the Morlem fire is on a very big scale and we have to ascertain the reason for this fire. We have given strict instructions to find out the reason and strict action would be taken against those found guilty.”
“Those who want to set fire in their cashew plantations are warned that no such action will be tolerated. They have to stop doing this henceforth. If forest guards are found guilty, a thorough inquiry would be done and if they are found to be irresponsible, they will be suspended. The public also should take note of this, and should stop putting fire in their plantations and forests. The government would not tolerate such losses to our forest wealth,” warned Sawant.
The chief minister further stated that various teams are working day and night to see that the fire is brought under control.
“Wherever fire tenders cannot gain access to the site, teams of around 30-35 personnel are handling the crisis on the spot.”
He also mentioned that a joint meeting has been convened at the Paryem Panchayat on Wednesday at 6 am, where police, fire services, forest department officials, local youth and panchayat members will support each other in extinguishing the fire as much as possible.
When asked how such fires could take place in places which are inaccessible, the CM replied: “That’s why an inquiry has been sought, to find out how this could happen, that fire incidents are happening in places that are not reachable.”
