Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
Source: DTE
Bushfire is a wildfire that occurs in bushland or forested areas. It is characterized by uncontrollable flames that rapidly spread and can cause significant damage to vegetation, wildlife, and property.
Australia faces frequent bushfires due to its hot and dry climate, flammable vegetation like eucalypt forests, weather patterns including droughts and strong winds, and human activities like land clearing and arson.
To deal with it, a highly effective bushfire management program has been developed over the past 20 years. From April to June each year, fire managers use small controlled fires to reduce fuel loads and make the landscape safer. This practice, known as “painting with fire,” combines satellite data with Indigenous knowledge and expertise from pastoralists and park rangers.
Significance: The program has led to significant declines in fire across the region and has gained international attention as a model for fire management. It highlights the importance of integrating technology, local knowledge, and diverse skills to achieve sustainable and resilient environmental management.
Usage: Such techniques can be used for Indian forest fire management as well. Such solutions can be used in Disaster Management/ Environment/ Geography Questions.
