Detailed inquiry ordered in Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary fire, says Goa Forest Minister

Goa Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane announced on Wednesday that a thorough investigation into the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary fire has been ordered. Rane added that the enquiry was ordered following a discussion with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant during the meeting last night. The fire at Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary burned for the fourth day on Tuesday.

The administration requested helicopters from the Navy to spray water on the fires.Taking to Facebook and Twitter, Rane said, “Strict instructions are been given to the DCF, and orders are been issued to post Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCFs) in various ranges in all the areas. Entry into the wildlife sanctuaries will be prohibited, people will not be allowed to put wildfires.”

“The RFOs and the forest guards posted in their respective areas will have to stay there 24/7 to monitor wildfires,” he added.

He further said, “I have instructed the DCF that his team will be responsible and will have to provide an explanation on whatever happens in the perimeters of the wildlife sanctuary.”

He stated that he will not allow the destruction of the Mhadei forest and that it is the department’s and the state’s collective responsibility to protect and conserve wildlife. He also stated that the ministry has received in-principle approval for additional helicopters from the Defence Ministry. He went on to say that it appears to be a man-made incident.

He further said, “A detailed inquiry as per the discussion with the Chief Minister last night has been ordered. The people responsible for this will be taken to task and suspended.”

Furthermore, he has issued strict instructions that anyone caught entering the wildlife sanctuary or starting a fire will be arrested under the Forest Act.