Gangtok, February 19: Sikkim’s Minister for Forest and Environment, Mines and Geology, and Science and Technology, Pintso Namgyal Lepcha, on Thursday distributed forest fire–fighting equipment to Territorial Divisions at the Forest Control Room, Forest Secretariat, Deorali.
 |
| Sikkim Forest Minister Pintso Namgyal Lepcha distributes forest fire–fighting equipment to Territorial Divisions at the Forest Secretariat, Deorali, Gangtok. (Image: DIO Gangtok) |
The programme, organised by the Forest and Environment Department, was held under the Annual Plan of Operation of the Forest Fire Prevention and Management Scheme (FFPMS) 2025–26. The initiative aims to enhance fire safety measures and strengthen the operational preparedness of frontline forest personnel.
Equipment distributed included rechargeable LED torch lights, fire balls, LED headlights, fire-proof gloves, fire beaters, fire racks, heavy knives (Bamfok), fire-retardant field jackets, reflector T-shirts, chainsaws, fire blowers, respirator masks, and sickles. Officials said the tools would significantly boost early detection, containment, and control of forest fires.
Addressing the gathering, the Minister said the current phase focuses on light and quick-access equipment to improve mobility and efficiency in field operations, particularly in difficult terrain. He noted that nearly 82 percent of Sikkim’s geographical area is under forest cover and highlighted that proactive efforts have helped increase forest cover while reducing fire incidents.
ALSO READ: MLA LB Das Conducts Two-Day Field Inspection of Mega Drinking Water Project in West Pendam
However, he cautioned that the ongoing dry spell due to inadequate rainfall has heightened the risk of forest fires and appealed to citizens to exercise caution while handling fire. He also urged the public not to feed wild animals and to inform the Forest Department in case of wildlife sightings requiring rescue.
PCCF-cum-Principal Secretary Dr Pradeep Kumar informed that the State is using satellite-based fire detection systems and predictive fire modelling developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Pune, to strengthen preparedness and enable rapid response by Quick Response Teams.
Senior forest officials, including Additional Chief Conservator of Forest Dr P. Senthil Kumar and CCF Territorial Karma Legshey, were present at the programme.
The initiative underscores the State Government’s continued commitment to safeguarding forests, wildlife, and local livelihoods through improved fire management infrastructure and advanced technology.
