Haridwar: Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan on Wednesday directed officials to complete all forest fire prevention preparations well before the fire season, stressing the need for coordination among departments and early planning.

Chairing a high-level review meeting at the Secretariat, Bardhan instructed that all committees and stakeholders related to forest fire management must hold meetings by January to ensure preparedness in advance. District Magistrates from across the state joined the meeting virtually.

He also asked the Drinking Water Department to prepare a proposal for dedicated pressure pipelines for fire hydrants installed across vulnerable areas.

The Chief Secretary directed the Forest Department to carry out inspection drives to assess fire prevention systems, ensuring proper maintenance of vehicles and equipment. He also emphasized strict safety arrangements at all resin (lisa) depots.

In a key move, Bardhan called for the development of a forest fire prediction model, involving the Forest Department, Meteorological Department, and survey agencies. The model is expected to help forecast fire risks and reduce damage to life and property.

Highlighting long-term solutions, he stressed the need to promote the disposal of pine needles (pirul) and expand the production of pirul briquettes as an alternative fuel. He noted that this would help control forest fires, generate livelihood opportunities for self-help groups, and support carbon credit initiatives.

During the district review, Haridwar District Magistrate Mayur Dixit informed that necessary directions have already been issued to concerned departments to prevent forest fire incidents.

Senior officials from health, education, disaster management, municipal bodies, and other departments were present at the meeting.