Wildfires have torn through Baglung district, decimating a staggering 2,174 hectares of precious forest land over the past two months. The Division Forest Office in Baglung confirmed that what began as a blaze in the Salleri Community Forest on February 23rd has rapidly spread, engulfing a total of 68 forests by May 1st.
Saroj Panthi, an official at the Division Forest Office, lamented the extensive damage inflicted by the wildfires, which have wreaked havoc on both national reserves and community-owned forests. A grim assessment revealed that 66 community forests and two national forests bore the brunt of the inferno, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape.
Beyond the environmental toll, the fires have exacted a heavy human cost. Tragically, one individual lost their life, while two others sustained injuries in a blaze that ravaged the Rani Ban Community Forest in Tamankhola Rural Municipality on April 25th. Meanwhile, in Aamalachaur Community Forest, Baglung Municipality-12, a blaze on May 1st resulted in the destruction of a dwelling, three barns, and the loss of two buffaloes, three cows, and five goats.
The devastation extended further as fires swept through the National Community Forest in Tarakhola Rural Municipality-1, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Three homes and five barns were razed to the ground, with six goats and two buffaloes perishing in the flames.
Overall, the wildfires have cast a dark shadow over Baglung, affecting approximately 150,900 hectares of land, including 527 community forests spanning 33,909 hectares. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this ecological catastrophe, urgent measures are being sought to mitigate the damage and prevent future occurrences.
24th May 2024
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