Rising forest fire threats in Nepal

It’s a familiar tale. As the dry season arrives, fires dominate the headlines—whether they are forest fires consuming acres of greenery or house fires wreaking destruction in urban areas. Though seasonal, these incidents leave lasting impacts on ecosystems, livelihoods, and resources. They serve as sobering reminders of nature’s power and our vulnerabilities. In Nepal, as in regions like California, forest fires are an annual occurrence, forcing us to confront not only the immediate aftermath but also broader implications for climate, biodiversity, and public safety.

Nepal’s diverse landscape, ranging from the low-lying Tarai plains to the rugged Himalayan hills, makes it particularly prone to forest fires during the dry season. Regions most at risk include the Terai belt, Siwalik hills, and mid-hill areas, where dense vegetation, prolonged dry spells, and windy conditions create ideal conditions for fire outbreaks. These vulnerabilities are exacerbated by the combination of flammable vegetation and human negligence.

Topography, climate, and vegetation significantly influence the frequency and intensity of forest fires. The dry season, stretching from January to April, brings low humidity and rising temperatures, which dry out undergrowth and make forests highly susceptible to ignition. Human activities such as slash-and-burn agriculture, careless disposal of cigarettes, and unregulated land clearing often act as triggers, further escalating the problem.

The consequences of forest fires in Nepal are wide-reaching, affecting both the environment and society. Environmentally, they lead to significant biodiversity loss as countless plant and animal species perish or lose their habitats. Soil degradation hampers forest regeneration, while the release of carbon emissions contributes to climate change. On the social front, fires exacerbate health issues, with air pollution increasing respiratory illnesses. Communities may face displacement as fires destroy homes and disrupt livelihoods, underscoring the urgent need for effective prevention and response measures.

Parashuram Poudel, Under-Secretary at the Ministry of Forests, stated, “In Nepal, forest fires are an annual menace, exacerbated by human negligence and traditional practices. We’ve been organizing campaigns like ‘Ban Dadhelo Niyantran Saptaha’ to educate communities about fire prevention. Careless behaviors, such as discarding cigarettes along roadsides, often ignite dry vegetation. Poachers also play a role, deliberately setting fires to trap and kill wildlife.”

“In hilly regions, people burn dry grass and leaves, believing it fosters new growth. While this tradition is deeply rooted, it poses significant risks,” Poudel added. “We’ve been working to raise awareness about climate change in villages, but people’s livelihoods are intertwined with nature. Animals depend on these forests, and the lack of rainfall this season has worsened the situation.”

Mahabharat in Kavre is one of the hardest-hit areas, where containing fires at early stages remains a challenge. “Despite deploying firefighters and equipment, limited manpower is a critical issue,” Poudel said.

Meteorologist Ujjwal Upadhyay noted that there is no indication of rainfall in the coming week. “Compared to the last two years, the pattern hasn’t changed significantly. However, over the past 4–5 years, we’ve observed notable shifts, such as consecutive winters without rainfall during this period. Previously, occasional rainfall was more common.”

Upadhyay explained that the absence of rainfall has led to rising temperatures and increasingly dry conditions. “In Gandaki Province, the risk of forest fires is heightened by factors like extensive forested areas and less frequent human activity, which allows dry leaves to accumulate. In contrast, in Madhes, frequent forest visits for leaf collection and grazing prevent such buildup, reducing fire risks,” he said. He cautioned that from late February onwards, fire incidents are likely to increase due to the combination of prolonged dryness, rising temperatures, and accumulated dry leaves.

Addressing the growing threat of forest fires in Nepal requires urgent and coordinated efforts. The devastating environmental and social impacts underscore the need for proactive measures. Solutions include awareness campaigns, sustainable forest management, and enhanced firefighting resources. Effective action demands collaboration among the government, local communities, and international organizations. By adopting sustainable strategies, Nepal can protect its biodiversity, safeguard livelihoods, and mitigate the destructive impact of forest fires.