Amid a surge in forest fire incidents across the Manaslu region, the Manaslu Conservation Area Project (MCAP) has launched drone-based surveillance to strengthen monitoring and control efforts. The initiative aims to detect fires early, identify those responsible, and minimize damage to forests, wildlife, and local communities.
According to MCAP Field Officer Bhuvan Ojha, drone surveillance was introduced after a noticeable increase in wildfire cases in areas such as Nakchet and Ghatte Khola of Chumanuwri Rural Municipality–3, along with surrounding localities, including Sirdibas. He said forest fires pose serious threats to biodiversity, wildlife habitats, human health, and the overall environment within the conservation area, making immediate monitoring and control measures essential.
“Over the past few weeks, wildfire incidents have been occurring almost daily in and around Sirdibas and nearby settlements,” Ojha said. “In many places, it takes three to four hours of walking to reach fire-affected sites due to difficult terrain. With the use of drones, we can now monitor multiple locations from a single point, assess the situation more quickly, and respond promptly.”
Aimed at Early Detection and Accountability
Ojha explained that the primary objectives of drone deployment are to ensure early detection of fire outbreaks, identify individuals involved in setting fires, and discourage intentional or negligent burning of forest areas. Since the introduction of drone monitoring, residents have become more aware of the risks and legal consequences of forest fires, which has contributed to a gradual reduction in incidents.
“The presence of drones has made communities more cautious. People now understand that fire outbreaks can be detected and traced more easily,” he added.
Two Fire Incidents Already Brought Under Control
With the help of drone surveillance, MCAP has already managed to control two wildfire incidents in the conservation area, Ojha confirmed. The drones have enabled officials to pinpoint affected zones quickly, assess the spread of flames, and coordinate with local authorities and communities for prompt firefighting action.
The Manaslu Conservation Area is one of Nepal’s most ecologically significant regions, home to rare wildlife species, fragile alpine ecosystems, and culturally rich mountain communities. The increasing frequency of forest fires in recent years has raised concerns among conservationists, as prolonged dry seasons, human activities, and climate change continue to heighten fire risks.
MCAP officials believe that drone-based monitoring will play a crucial role in protecting forests, safeguarding biodiversity, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Manaslu region by enabling faster response, improved accountability, and greater public awareness about forest fire prevention.
