Abstract ID: 3.8585 | Accepted as Talk | Talk | TBA | TBA

The increasing frequency and intensity of forest fires, primarily driven by human activities, pose significant threats to ecosystems, communities, and economies worldwide. In India, however, there is still a limited understanding of the causes, extent, and ecological impacts of forest fires. The Himalayan states, particularly Uttarakhand, experience a higher number of fire incidents due to the dominance of pine forests. The recorded incidents rose sharply from 5,351 in 2022–23 to 21,033 in 2023–24 (FSI, 2024). Pine forests, which are highly susceptible to fires due to resin tapping, cover vast areas of the temperate forests in Uttarakhand’s mountainous regions. Additionally, sub-alpine and alpine bushlands are increasingly affected by fires due to human interference. A study assessing the impact of forest fires on biodiversity and community health has been conducted across 20 villages in the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary (KWLS), a biodiversity hotspot known for its rich variety of endangered and endemic flora and fauna. The study examines fire-related effects on vegetation regeneration, biodiversity monitoring, soil properties, and tree mortality, offering crucial insights into the ecological consequences of fire disturbances. Moreover, the study underscores the multidisciplinary nature of forest fire research, integrating ecological, social, and management perspectives to develop a comprehensive understanding of the issue. Given that human activities are a major cause of ignition, community involvement is essential for effective forest fire management. As the first responders, local communities play a pivotal role in both prevention and suppression efforts. The findings highlight the importance of community-based forest fire management, which actively engages local populations in fire prevention, monitoring, and response initiatives. Ultimately, the study emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable forest management practices, prioritizing protective strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of forest fires and enhance long-term ecosystem resilience in Uttarakhand and the western Himalaya.