To enhance awareness and preparedness for forest fire prevention, a Forest Fire Awareness Workshop was successfully conducted in two locations under the allocated budget and program for the current fiscal year. The workshop aimed to educate local stakeholders about the causes, impacts, and control measures for fires, ensuring better management and protection of resources.
The first session of the workshop took place on the 29th of Magh, 2081 (February 11, 2025), in Khadarjung, Ward No. 2 of Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality. A total of 53 participants, including 16 women and 37 men, attended the session. The attendees comprised chairpersons and representatives of conservation area management committees, members and officials of forest management sub-committees, and local consumers. The workshop provided a platform for discussion and interaction on various aspects of forest fire prevention and control.
Similarly, the second session was held on the 30th of Magh, 2081 (February 12, 2025), in Mirsa, Ward No. 1 of Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality. This session witnessed the participation of 47 individuals, including 19 women and 28 men. Like the previous session, it brought together conservation area management committees’ chairpersons and representatives, management sub-committee members, and local consumers.
The primary focus of both sessions was to shed light on the causes of fires, their devastating effects on the environment, biodiversity, and local communities, and the necessary control measures to mitigate fire risks. Experts highlighted the role of human activities in triggering forest fires, such as uncontrolled burning of agricultural residues, negligence in handling fire in forested areas, and climate-induced factors.
Participants actively engaged in discussions on strategies for early fire detection, rapid response mechanisms, and community-based fire management systems. They were also introduced to best practices for firebreaks, controlled burning techniques, and the significance of forming local response teams to tackle potential forest fire incidents effectively.
The workshop concluded with a strong emphasis on collective responsibility and coordination among local communities, government agencies, and conservation organizations to safeguard forest resources. The importance of community awareness and proactive measures was reiterated, urging participants to disseminate knowledge within their respective areas to minimize fire occurrences.
This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to enhancing fire preparedness and resilience in Machhapuchhre Rural Municipality, fostering a more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to forest conservation.
