Nainital: Forest fires raging across Nainital and nearby regions for the past ten days have created a serious environmental and health crisis.
The fires
are not only destroying forest wealth and wildlife but also poisoning the air with dangerous pollutants.
Black carbon levels rise tenfold
According to experts, the concentration of black carbon in Nainital’s atmosphere has increased more than ten times. Normally, black carbon levels remain between 1–2 nanograms per cubic meter, but due to the fires, they have now reached 15–20 nanograms.
Dr. Narendra Singh, an environmental scientist at ARIES (Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences), explained that black carbon is produced by incomplete combustion of wood and fossil fuels. Once released, it can remain in the atmosphere for up to two weeks, raising temperatures and accelerating glacier melting.
PM 2.5 and carbon monoxide danger
Along with black carbon, PM 2.5 levels have also risen sharply. Earlier, they ranged between 8–10, but now they have reached around 25, making the air unsafe to breathe. These fine particles easily enter the lungs, causing respiratory problems.
Carbon monoxide, another harmful gas, has also increased. It can remain in the air for up to two months and is considered highly dangerous for human health. Doctors warn that prolonged exposure can lead to breathing difficulties, headaches, and long-term lung damage.
Forest wealth destroyed
Since the fire season began on February 15, Uttarakhand has recorded 198 forest fire incidents, burning more than 120 hectares of forest land. Pine-dominated forests in Nainital have been blazing continuously for ten days, making it difficult for the forest department to control the flames.
According to official data:
Kumaon region: 23 fire incidents destroyed 17.15 hectares.
Garhwal region: 154 incidents burned 90.57 hectares.
Zoological Park areas: 21 incidents destroyed 12.55 hectares.
The fires are spreading rapidly due to rising temperatures, dry conditions, and strong sunlight.
Impact on wildlife and people
The fires are threatening wildlife habitats, forcing animals to flee. Villages near forest areas are also facing danger, as smoke and toxic gases are entering populated regions. Residents complain of burning eyes, breathing problems, and rising heat.
Environmentalists warn that the combination of black carbon, carbon monoxide, and PM 2.5 is not only harmful to humans but also accelerates glacier melting, which could impact rivers and water supply in the long run.
