Forest fires are most commonly observed in southern Rajasthan, particularly in the Udaipur and Pratapgarh districts. This can be understood from the fact that in just over the last two years, Udaipur district had 3013 forest fire incidents, and Pratapgarh district had 1975 incidents. Managing fires in lower foothill regions involves using fire engine, but controlling fires at higher altitudes presents considerable challenges. There is an increasing demand for a Forest Fire Safety Center in Udaipur, where trained firefighters can use modern techniques to effectively manage and control wildfires.

In fact, although not exactly as a Forest Fire Safety Center, similar proposals were submitted to the state government by the Udaipur Forest Department during the last fiscal year. These proposals included plans for fire prevention training centers, with a specific allocation of Rs 60,00,00 for a Fire Safety Center in Udaipur.

These proposals totaling ten crore rupees included plans for different initiatives focused on 'High-Level Training and Modern Equipment for Fire Protection' aimed at managing forest fires.These initiatives were introduced in Udaipur under the leadership of Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot in response to forest fires in the region. The state government is currently assessing these proposals.

 Key points of the proposals

Setting up a Forest Fire Prevention Training Center with demonstrations of modern firefighting equipment Establishment of a Firefighting Cell or Control Room - Conducting workshops for rural residents in Udaipur, Chittorgarh, Pratapgarh, Banswara, and Dungarpur.

The purchase of firefighting tools like fire beaters, power blowers, and protective gear - Building new six-meter-wide firebreaks in forest areas and upkeep of existing ones.

• Erecting watchtowers in wooded regions
• Establishing barracks for personnel in critical forest zones
• Employing temporary fire monitors
• Acquiring jeeps for accessing fire-affected areas
• Obtaining firefighting vehicles, tractors, tankers, pumps, and related equipment.

Mukesh Saini, Assistant Forest Conservator in Udaipur said that Forest fires frequently occur in the Udaipur region. Proposals for addressing these incidents with advanced training and modern firefighting equipment have been submitted to the government and are currently under review by state authorities.

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