As forest fires continue to rage across various regions of Odisha during summer, the Odisha government has intensified its efforts to monitor and control the crisis using cutting-edge technology.

Drones are now being actively deployed across hilly and inaccessible forest areas to detect fire outbreaks in real-time. These aerial surveillance tools play a crucial role in the early identification and tracking of fire locations, especially in remote regions where manual patrolling is difficult.

In addition to drones, the state has also introduced AI-powered camera systems in some key forest regions, including the famous Similipal forest, to enhance fire surveillance. These AI-enabled systems automatically detect fire or smoke and alert forest officials, enabling quicker response and minimising damage to flora and fauna.

Forest Conservator officials revealed that as of now, the state has reported forest fires at nearly 25,000 fire points. Among these, 99% of the fires have been brought under control, thanks to the relentless and round-the-clock efforts of forest personnel, informed Forest Conservator Kartik V.

The officials are hopeful that the onset of rain in the coming days could offer significant relief, not only in extinguishing any remaining fires but also in giving much-needed rest to forest staff who have been working tirelessly day and night under hazardous conditions.

One Forest Personnel Injured

However, the fire-fighting efforts have not come without risk. In a tragic incident from the Rourkela Forest Division, a forest employee sustained serious burn injuries while attempting to control a rapidly spreading fire in the Kuarmunda region. 
According to the Forest Conservator, the fire, initially localized, quickly spread across the hill due to strong winds. The staff member, caught in the blaze during the fire-fighting operation, was severely injured and is currently undergoing treatment at a medical facility.
This incident underscores the dangers faced by frontline forest workers as they battle the rising number of wildfires. The Forest Department has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of its personnel while continuing to deploy both manpower and technology to protect Odisha’s vast green cover.