Centre Advises States on Readiness for Heatwaves, Forest Fires

The Centre has underscored the critical need for states and Union territories to enhance their preparedness for tackling heat waves and forest fires, aiming to prevent loss of life and minimize damage. This directive was issued during a National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) meeting, led by Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba. The meeting saw participation from chief secretaries of multiple states including Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Gujarat among others, alongside senior officials from central ministries and departments. The collective focus was on ensuring optimum preparedness through close engagement between central and state entities.

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During the NCMC meeting, Gauba highlighted the necessity for states and Union territories to be well-prepared to face the challenges posed by heat waves and forest fires. He pointed out the importance of following preparatory guidelines set by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). Detailed presentations on the current situation regarding heat waves and forest fires were made by the NDMA and MoEFCC, outlining ongoing efforts to address these issues across India.

Heat Wave Forecasts and Preparations

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) reported an observation of 10-22 days with above-normal heat wave conditions across various parts of the country from April to June 2024. Additionally, forecasts for June indicate a likelihood of above-normal heatwave days in most areas of Northwest India and adjacent north Central regions. Despite these challenging conditions, the monsoon is expected to be normal or above normal in most parts of India. The IMD has been actively issuing regular alerts on heat waves to ensure preparedness.

Advisories and State Responses

The NDMA has conducted a series of preparatory meetings since October 2023 with central ministries, departments, and state governments. Advisories have been issued urging states to activate control rooms, enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for heat waves, ensure the availability of drinking water, prepare health facilities with essential medicines and Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS), and maintain uninterrupted power supply. States are also advised to regularly conduct fire safety audits in schools, hospitals, and other institutions to reduce response times during fire incidents.

Forest Fire Management Strategies

In response to forest fire management, the MoEFCC presented an action plan detailing preparedness measures across various regions. A notable initiative is the VAN AGNI portal developed by the Forest Survey of India (FSI), which offers pre-fire and near real-time forest fire alerts to assist states and relevant agencies. This system is part of a broader strategy emphasized by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a review meeting on June 2, highlighting the need for greater attention towards forest fire issues.

Cabinet Secretary Gauba reiterated the importance of a comprehensive approach towards forest fire management that includes prevention, quick response, and effective handling. He urged chief secretaries to regularly review both short-term and long-term measures to enhance preparedness against heat waves. Efforts to maintain and augment water supply sources were discussed along with ensuring regular fire safety audits of all institutions.

The collaborative effort between central and state governments aims at creating a robust system capable of mitigating the impacts of heat waves and forest fires, thereby safeguarding communities against these natural calamities.