A toll-free number for forest fire complaints and a vehicle to raise public awareness on prevention of forest fires were launched on the occasion of Earth Day by the forest department from the Forest Training Institute (FTI) here on Monday.
The State’s principal chief conservator of forests Jai Raj flagged off the public awareness vehicle from the FTI. This vehicle will be used for raising public awareness on prevention of forest fires. After moving around in the Haldwani area, it will travel in the mountainous regions of Kumaon informing the public about damage caused by forest fires, how to prevent them and the toll-free number for complaints related to forest fires. Speaking on the occasion, the PCCF said that it is the duty of all to protect the earth for which it is also vital to be aware of this responsibility.
The humans are mainly responsible for the changes taking place in nature. This makes it all the more important for people to realise their responsibilities towards nature and how to discharge the same. He said, “It has become very important now that we all first work for the environment. If we do not become aware before its late, we will have to be prepared for major change in environment. For this, we have to protect the forests from fires. In case of forest fires, one can inform on 7900577999 or on the toll-free number 1800180414,” he added.
