Chhattisgarh Govt Initiative: Tiriya in Bastar Shows the Way to Forest Conservation; After Securing CFR Rights, Villagers Successfully Combat Forest Fires
In Tiriya village, in Chhattisgarh's Bastar, forest protection is no longer viewed solely as the government's responsibility. Since the village secured Community Forest Rights (CFR) over more than 3,000 hectares of forest, local residents have been playing a more active role in safeguarding the woods from fire.
For the villagers, the forest is an integral part of their daily lives and livelihoods. They rely on forest produce such as Mahua, Char, and Tendu leaves. Consequently, forest fires can not only damage trees and wildlife but also jeopardize the livelihoods of local families.
Community patrol teams formed
The villagers have formed community patrol teams to keep a watch on the forest. Members take turns monitoring different areas. Upon spotting smoke or a small fire, they immediately alert other villagers, who rush to the site and attempt to bring the fire under control before it spreads.
The community has also created 'fire lines' by clearing away dry leaves, grass, and other combustible materials. This creates a gap that reduces the fuel available for a fire to spread.
Villagers respond swiftly when a fire breaks out
Tiriya’s experience demonstrates how local participation can strengthen forest protection. Villagers possess intimate knowledge of the terrain and can often respond swiftly when a fire breaks out.
For them, protecting the forest is not merely an environmental endeavor; it is also a matter of securing their livelihoods and their future.
Tiriya’s experience illustrates how the combination of legal rights, community responsibility, and local knowledge can help protect forests and mitigate the impact of forest fires.