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Summary

The research paper entitled Spatial Assessment of Forest Fire Distribution, Occurrence and Dynamics in Province-2, Nepal was published by authors Dipika Badal and Ram Asheshwar Mandal. This study aimed to objectively assess the trends of forest fire occurrence, burnt area, causes, and management measures in Province-2, Nepal. Primary data was collected through 48 questionnaire surveys and 32 key informant interviews, while secondary data was obtained from the Fire Information for Resource Management System spanning from 2002 to 2019. A total of 36 maps were produced to visualize fire occurrences and burnt area patterns in the targeted area.

The results indicated 5,289 forest fire incidents and a total burnt area of 499,538.9 hectares during the study period. The highest number of forest fire incidents occurred in March, accounting for 56.24% of the total. The Lower Tropical Sal and Mixed Broadleaf Forest experienced the highest incidence of 3,237 observations. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in fire occurrence and burnt area among the Lower Tropical Sal and Mixed Broadleaf Forest, Hill Sal Forest, and Outside Forest Region. Positive correlations were observed between the year and forest fire occurrence in the Lower Tropical Sal and Mixed Broadleaf Forest, as well as between the year and burnt area in the Hill Sal Forest. The Principal Component Analysis conducted in the Parsa district indicated a positive correlation between unextinguished cigarette butts and litterfall.