Uttarakhand Takes Action: Seven New Pine Needle Briquette Units to Combat Forest Fires

The Uttarakhand forest department plans to establish seven new pine needle briquette units across various forest divisions to combat forest fires. Beyond fire prevention, these units aim to generate local employment through self-help group collaborations. The department collected significant pine needle quantities last year, leading to monetary compensation.

The Uttarakhand forest department is set to establish seven new pine needle briquette units to combat the recurring threat of forest fires. The initiative, announced by Additional Chief Conservator of Forests Nishant Verma, targets completion before the next fire season.

These briquette units, located in Almora, Champawat, Garhwal, and Narendra Nagar forest divisions, will not only prevent fires but also create employment opportunities by collaborating with self-help groups. Currently, five such units exist in the state, covering 15.25% of forest areas dominated by pine trees.

Verma revealed that last year, these groups collected over 38,299 quintals of pine needles, earning more than Rs 1.13 crore. Following Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's instructions, the department has also drafted a five-year forest fire prevention plan, awaiting central government approval.

(With inputs from agencies.)