Forest fires in Thimphu have become an alarming, recurring issue. The destructive fires not only threaten the delicate ecological balance of the country’s forests but also place a significant burden on the resources and efforts of the government, emergency services, and communities.

While natural causes can sometimes be a factor, the human element remains the primary contributor to these devastating fires. The root cause is clear: negligence, carelessness, and a lack of accountability. It is time we recognised that preventing such fires is not just the responsibility of a few, but also a collective duty that every individual must shoulder.

Forest fires are happening with increasing frequency, especially during the dry season when the combination of high temperatures and strong winds makes the forests more vulnerable. The fires not only consume thousands of acres of valuable land but also harm wildlife and release significant amounts of carbon dioxide, exacerbating the already pressing issue of climate change.

Each fire that breaks out costs lives, both human and animal, while also impacting the economy and damaging the cultural heritage linked to these forests.

One may ask, what causes these fires? While lightning and other natural events can ignite a forest fire, human activity is the principal trigger. From careless disposal of cigarette butts to illegal burning for agricultural purposes, it is human negligence that sparks most of these fires.

The practice of slash-and-burn agriculture, though a traditional technique, has proved hazardous in recent years due to changing weather patterns, making it harder to control. Uncontrolled campfires, discarded glass bottles, and fireworks also pose significant risks. All these actions, whether intentional or unintentional, contribute to the fiery menace that spreads rapidly across the landscape.

The government has put in place measures to combat forest fires, including the establishment of fire-fighting teams and forest fire prevention campaigns. But these measures can only go so far. The true success of forest fire prevention lies in the actions of every individual.

It starts with awareness—being mindful of the environment and understanding the devastating impact of a forest fire. It requires each person to act responsibly by adhering to fire safety protocols when visiting forested areas, being cautious with fire usage, and avoiding the careless disposal of waste.

While the government can help by providing education and resources, it is the collective effort of the community that can create lasting change.

The forests are not just our environmental assets—they are part of our heritage, our livelihoods, and our legacy. Whether you live in the city or the surrounding rural areas, we all share the responsibility of preventing forest fires.