Shillong: In a decisive move to combat the escalating threat of wildfires, the District Magistrate of East Khasi Hills has issued an immediate prohibitory order, effectively banning the deliberate and unattended burning of forests. This stringent measure, enacted on March 19th, aims to safeguard both the public and the fragile ecosystem of the region.
The order, signed by District Magistrate RM Kurbah, invokes Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNSS) Act, citing the “rampant unattended burning of Forest which leads to Wildfires/Forest fires” as the primary cause for concern. The administration’s action underscores the urgent need to protect the district’s natural resources and ensure public safety.
“It is necessary to ensure safety to the general public, and also to ensure protection of the environment from degradation and to prevent further damage to our precious forest ecosystem; as well as threat to safety and loss of human lives,” the issued directive explicitly states, highlighting the severe consequences of uncontrolled forest fires.
The prohibition specifically targets any act of deliberately setting fires in forests, as well as the unattended burning of vegetation that poses a risk of spreading into destructive wildfires. This broad scope reflects the administration’s commitment to preventing any activity that could lead to environmental damage, property loss, or endanger human lives.
Violators of this newly implemented ban face the prospect of prosecution under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Act, signaling the administration’s resolve to enforce the order strictly. The prohibition has been put into effect immediately, demonstrating the urgency with which the district is addressing the wildfire risk.
The duration of the ban remains indefinite, with the district administration specifying that it will “remain in force till further orders.” This open-ended timeframe allows the administration to assess the situation and adjust the measures as needed, ensuring continuous protection against the threat of forest fires.
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