Forest fires have become a global crisis, unleashing destruction on ecosystems, air quality, and biodiversity while intensifying climate change. The growing frequency and severity of wildfires from Russia to Australia highlight the urgent need for better fire management strategies and stronger climate action.
In Los Angeles, wildfires recently caused losses of $30 billion, burning over 57,000 acres and destroying 16,000 structures. Between 2001 and 2023, wildfires wiped out 138 million hectares of tree cover worldwide, with Russia, Canada, and the U.S. suffering the highest losses. Meanwhile, global wildfires have emitted five to eight billion tonnes of CO₂ annually, worsening air pollution and health risks.
India, too, faces escalating wildfire threats. With nearly 1.65 million hectares of forest lost to fires since 2001, the country ranks 45th globally in wildfire-driven tree cover loss. Human activity is responsible for 95% of India’s forest fires, while the rest are caused by natural events like lightning. The 2023 India State of Forest Report reveals that 2.81% of the country’s forest cover is extremely fire-prone, with Madhya Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, and Maharashtra having the most extensive forest areas at risk.
Despite government measures like the National Action Plan on Forest Fire (NAPFF) and the Centrally Sponsored Forest Fire Prevention and Management Scheme, forest fires continue to wreak havoc. Experts emphasize the need for increased investment in early detection, community-based fire management programs, and public-private partnerships for fire-resistant vegetation research. Additionally, stronger climate policies, emission reduction targets, and reforestation efforts are critical to curbing the long-term risks posed by worsening wildfires.
As climate change fuels more extreme weather, tackling wildfires requires a coordinated, global approach—one that prioritizes both prevention and rapid response to safeguard forests and communities from escalating infernos.