The recent outbreak of forest fires in two of India’s most critical wildlife sanctuaries, the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary in Jharkhand and the Simlipal Tiger Reserve in Odisha, has left us deeply saddened and concerned. The devastation caused by these fires, ravaging over 24 hectares in Dalma and impacting 31 locations within Simlipal, poses a significant threat to the delicate ecosystems of these regions.
At the Adivasi Welfare Foundation (AWF), we have a longstanding commitment to conservation efforts in these areas. Through projects like “IMPACT for Wildlife Conservation” and “IMPACT for Tribals,” we’ve been actively engaged in planting local species in buffer zones to mitigate human-elephant conflict in Dalma and to restore habitats in Simlipal. However, the recent fires serve as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change.
Climate change is not a distant threat; it’s a harsh reality that we’re witnessing in real-time. The loss of vital habitats due to these fires is a tragedy for the countless species that call these forests home. It’s also a wake-up call for all of us to recognize the urgent need for action.
According to recent reports, India has seen a significant increase in the frequency and intensity of forest fires in recent years. Factors such as rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and human activities like deforestation and land clearing have contributed to this alarming trend. In 2020 alone, India witnessed a staggering 21% increase in the number of forest fires compared to the previous year.
The impact of these fires extends far beyond the immediate loss of flora and fauna. Forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The destruction of these forests not only releases stored carbon back into the atmosphere but also reduces the capacity of the land to sequester carbon in the future.
At AWF, we’re committed to making a difference. Through our extensive reforestation efforts, we’ve planted 7.2 million local species across various states, including Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha, Bihar, and Uttarakhand. These efforts have the potential to sequester approximately 145,999,784 kilograms of carbon upon maturing, contributing significantly to climate change mitigation.
But our work is far from over. We need your support now more than ever. Together, we can make a difference. Join hands with AWF in our mission to make these jungles green again. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading awareness, every action counts.
The recent forest fires in Dalma and Simlipal serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective action to combat climate change and protect our planet’s precious biodiversity. Let’s come together and ensure a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.
