Forest Fire Response and Safety Protocols Training Conducted in Dolakha

September 7, 2025

A two-day training on Forest Fire Response and Safety Protocols was organised on 3^rd-4^th September 2025 at Golmeshwor and 5^th-6^th September 2025 at Salleri Community Forest User Group, Shailung rural municipality, Dolakha. The program engaged 46 participants (26 at Golmeshwor and 20 at Salleri), including community stakeholders, representatives of local government, and staff from the Division Forest Office. The primary objective was to enhance local capacity for the prevention, detection, and control of forest fires while prioritising both personal and environmental safety.

The training was facilitated by Mr. Gagan Sharma, Forest Fire Expert, MoFE Bagmati Province; Mr. Madan Bashyal, Forest Fire and Safety Expert, ForestAction Nepal; Mr. Sharada Prasad Chalise, Mock Drill Facilitator; Mr. Manish Shrestha, Program Officer, ForestAction Nepal; and Project Lead, Mr. Rahul Karki. Core sessions addressed forest fire dynamics, underlying causes, suppression methods, safety measures, and legal frameworks. Participants also took part in practical field exercises and a mock drill, designed to reinforce theoretical knowledge with real-life application. Pre- and post-training assessments were conducted to evaluate learning outcomes.

Key Reflections

Govinda Khadka, Chairperson, Golmeshwor CFUG: “This training gave us the confidence to respond to wildfires as a team. The practical skills and emphasis on communication showed us how coordination can save both forests and lives.”

Ujeli Karki, Participant: “The structured sessions and hands-on drills made the learning real. Practising the tools and techniques under expert guidance has changed how I understand forest fire response.”

Sharada Prasad Chalise, Mock Drill Facilitator: “The commitment of the participants was inspiring. Their active involvement proved they are ready to apply these skills in real situations, which is the true measure of preparedness.”

Gagan Sharma, Forest Fire Expert, MoFE Bagmati Province: “Forest fire risks are rising everywhere. Continuous training like this is not optional; it is essential. Collective action is the only way we protect our forests and communities.”

The program concluded with reflections from participants and forest officials, followed by closing remarks from the Project Lead, Mr. Rahul Karki. Participants acknowledged that the training substantially improved their knowledge and confidence in forest fire management, reaffirming the importance of continued capacity-building efforts to safeguard community forests and strengthen local resilience.