Odisha is facing a severe wildfire crisis, with 747 new incidents today, adding to over 12,000 fire-affected spots this year. Forest officials are working tirelessly to control the spreading blazes. Fires had broken out in 1,426 locations. 747 additional fires have been detected.
Since the beginning of 2025, Odisha has witnessed 10,455 forest fire incidents, with a sharp increase as summer advances. The Forest Survey of India (FSI) detected 2,586 fire points in Odisha’s forests over the past week.
The most affected districts include Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Koraput, Nuapada, Kalahandi, Bargarh, Bolangir, Rayagada, Kandhamal, Sundargarh, Boudh, Subarnapur, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Gajapati, Ganjam, Deogarh, Angul, Cuttack, Nayagarh, Keonjhar, Mayurbhanj, Dhenkanal, and Jajpur.
According to the FSI, Odisha has recorded 4,503 fire incidents in the past week, making it the second-most affected state in India, following Telangana.
Forest fires have spread rapidly, destroying vast green cover, harming biodiversity, and disrupting ecological balance. Between February 25 and March 4, Odisha recorded 1,172 fire points, and the numbers are rising. Early leaf shedding and dry conditions in southern Odisha have worsened the situation, contributing to uncontrolled fires.
Authorities are mobilising resources and working relentlessly to contain the fires. However, controlling the spread remains a challenge due to the intensity of the blazes.
“The situation is critical, and continuous monitoring and firefighting efforts are in place.” Officials urge local communities to report suspicious activities or new fire outbreaks to prevent further destruction.
Authorities have urged residents, farmers, and visitors in forested areas to stay vigilant. Immediate reporting of fire incidents can help contain the crisis before it escalates.
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