For Environment, Democracy and Livelihoods
Forest fire risk is not distributed equally across society. Individuals differ in their physical, psychological, and social circumstances, and these differences shape how exposed and vulnerable they are. Persons with disabilities are particularly at risk, as impairments may limit their capacity to perceive early warnings, evacuate quickly, or access emergency support. This is particularly the case in the mid-hills of Nepal, where steep and rugged terrain, narrow trails, scattered settlements, and limited access to roads can make evacuation and access to emergency services challenging. Therefore, disability-inclusive forest fire safety orientations are essential to raise awareness of fire risks, share accessible early-warning information, develop practical evacuation and response skills, and strengthen preparedness at household and community levels.
Citing the importance, a one-day orientation on safety measures for people with disabilities (PwDs) during forest fires was held on 21st September 2026 at Shailung Rural Municipality. Shailung Rural Municipality and ForestAction Nepal jointly organized the event under the project “Fostering Community-Led Forest Fire Management in Nepal” funded by Australian Himalayan Foundation (AHF) and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Australia. The event was targeted at PwDs residing in wards 4 and 5 of Shailung rural municipality. Over thirty people with various types of disabilities took part. Also present were the caretakers of selective individuals and a few community leaders for whom sensitizing on the topic is of utmost importance.
Audio-visuals, and interactive approaches on forest fire risks and safety was adopted to ensure that the issues discussed was made simple and easily comprehensible to those present. By making forest fire safety accessible to everyone, the orientation marks a step toward ensuring that no one in Shailung is left behind when fire strikes.
