Ministry Weary of Spike in Forest Fires

A spike in forest fires around the country has prompted the Ministry of Forestry to issue a public appeal.

The ministry is weary of this alarming trend which pose immediate and long-term threats to livelihoods, animals, and the environment, said the Permanent Secretary for Fisheries and Forestry, Atelaite Rokosuka.

Ms Rokosuka appealed to members of the public to protect the forests.

“They are the lungs of the world,” she said.

She said the ministry could not tackle the problem alone and needed a united effort to combat illegal fires.

“We remind members of the public to take extra care of our forests.”

Over the past few weeks, pine plantations in the Northern and Western divisions have been suffered from bush fires.

Forest fire in Sigatoka on October 11, 2023.

Advice 

She is calling on people to avoid starting fires on roadsides, especially during this dry season.

“For passengers travelling in moving vehicles, please refrain from throwing your cigarette butts onto the side of the road as they may end up in patches of dry grass that can burn and spread further into the forests,” Ms Rokosuka said.

“Careless actions may have drastic effects on communities that live close to forests and rely on the forest for their livelihoods. Let us work together and keep our Fiji green and beautiful. By following simple practices and fostering a culture of fire safety, we can reduce the risk of destructive wildfires and protect lives and the environment.”

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