Forests in Khandwa and North Betul, located in Central India, are increasingly threatened by forest fires due to a mix of human activities and natural causes. A study published on August 14, 2024, has brought attention to this growing concern.

Study Overview

The research, led by Vibha Sahu from the Indian Institute of Forest Management, analyzed 22 years of satellite data from the MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer). The study revealed a troubling trend: the number of forest fires in Khandwa has been rising by an average of three fires per year, while North Betul has seen an increase of one fire per year.

Fire Risk Assessment

The study found that about 45% of Khandwa’s forests and 50% of North Betul’s forests are now classified as high or very high risk for fires. In Khandwa, the most vulnerable areas are in the northern and southeastern regions, while in North Betul, the high-risk zones are mainly in the northwestern and northeastern parts.

Factors Influencing Fire Risks

Several factors contribute to the increased fire risks in these forests, including the type of vegetation, the land’s topography (shape), and human activities. For instance, areas near roads or forests with highly flammable trees, like the teak forests in Khandwa, are particularly prone to fires.

Predictive Modelling

The researchers used a method called the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to predict where future fires are most likely to occur. This approach categorizes different areas into five levels of fire risk, helping focus fire prevention efforts where they are needed most. Local communities also contribute to fire risks through certain practices, like burning undergrowth to harvest mahua flowers and tendu leaves, which unintentionally increases the likelihood of fires. This highlights the need for better education and awareness among these communities about safer ways to manage their resources.

The study’s findings are crucial for conservation efforts, as they help identify the most fire-prone areas, allowing authorities to develop effective fire management strategies. By doing so, these strategies can protect the forests and the communities that depend on them. Lead researcher Vibha Sahu emphasizes the urgent need for targeted planning and resource allocation to reduce the threat of forest fires in Khandwa and North Betul.

About Khandwa

Khandwa, located in Madhya Pradesh, is known for its rich cultural heritage and historic sites like the Ujjain and Omkareshwar temples. It played a significant role in the Sepoy Mutiny of 1857 and is important for its agricultural production, especially cotton and pulses. The sacred Narmada River flows nearby, adding to the region’s cultural significance.

About North Betul

North Betul, part of the Betul district in Madhya Pradesh, is known for its rich biodiversity and forests, including the scenic Satpura Range. Betul is one of India’s top producers of soybeans and hosts an annual Jain festival celebrating local culture. The region also features historical sites like the Bhimbetka rock shelters, and its tropical climate influences both agriculture and daily life in the area.