Bhubaneswar: In a major push to safeguard the states green cover, the newly appointed Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force, Dr. K. Murugesan, has unveiled a comprehensive technology driven roadmap for forest protection.
Speaking at a press conference in Aranya Bhawan, PCCF & HoFF, Odisha Dr. Murugesan emphasized that the Department of Forest, Environment and Climate Change is entering a critical phase of preparedness as the wildfire season approaches.
The PCCF & HoFF announced that Odisha has deployed high tech surveillance including artificial intelligence enabled cameras and drones to ensure early detection of smoke and fire in remote areas.
This technological leap follows a year where satellite alerts helped the department manage over 29,000 fire points with a 99.7 percent response efficiency. To further fortify the terrain, the department has created an extensive network of firebreak lines stretching over 20,461 kilometers across vulnerable zones.
PCCF & HoFF Dr. Murugesan highlighted that protection is not just about technology but also ground level grit. A total of 334 dedicated protection squads have been stationed at various forest ranges, equipped with 5,000 leaf blowers and specialized firefighting gear.
Training has been a core focus under his leadership, with over 631 programs conducted for forest staff and specialized drills for 200 NDRF personnel to handle large scale emergencies.
Acknowledging that human negligence remains a primary cause of forest fires, the HoFF made a strong appeal for community participation. He noted that awareness campaigns are currently active in 336 villages through local Forest Protection Committees.
By integrating advanced AI surveillance with traditional community engagement, the Department of Forest, Environment & Climate Change under PCCF & HoFF, Dr. Murugesan aims to minimize ecological damage and protect the livelihoods of those dependent on Odisha’s rich biodiversity.