BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS-
Algeria has taken significant steps in strengthening its firefighting capabilities by acquiring six new water bomber planes, as announced by the Minister of the Interior and Local Authorities, Brahim Merad. The country has entered into a charter contract with Chile to procure these additional aircraft, which will augment the existing fleet of two water bombers with a capacity of 12,000 liters. The Algerian government is committed to bolstering its firefighting infrastructure and response mechanisms to combat the devastating effects of forest fires.
To facilitate the deployment of the water bombers effectively, the Algerian government has prioritized the construction of landing strips in 10 wilayas, particularly in coastal areas with dense population centers. Minister Merad emphasized the importance of these landing strips, which will enhance the speed and efficiency of interventions during forest fire emergencies. In May, Minister Merad reported that the progress rate of work on the landing strips ranged from 10% to 60%, and they were expected to be completed by early June.
One landing strip has already been completed in Kef Fatma, located in the commune of Benazouz in Skikda. The wali, Houria Medahi, stated that the landing strip would soon be operational. This development marks a significant milestone in Algeria’s efforts to strengthen its firefighting infrastructure.
In addition to acquiring water bombers and constructing landing strips, the Algerian government has deployed 65 mobile columns of civil protection consisting of 3,770 agents and 650 tank trucks, as well as mobilizing 15,000 civil protection agents. The Directorate General of Forests has also implemented robust measures, including 387 control towers, 544 mobile brigades, and 748 workshops staffed with 8,294 agents who can be mobilized in case of extreme emergencies. These measures are aimed at ensuring swift interventions during forest fires and minimizing damage.
Recognizing the need for proactive measures, the Ministry of Agriculture has implemented urgent preventive actions for the 2023 season, starting from June 15. The ministry has called for the mobilization of all stakeholders involved in forest conservation and administration across the country to remain on high alert and prepared to respond to emergencies 24/7. Joint patrols conducted by forestry services, civil protection agencies, and security services will be intensified in and around forest areas.
To mitigate the risk of forest fires, the Ministry of Agriculture has also decided to freeze coal production. The ministry has emphasized the importance of raising public awareness through print and audiovisual media, social networks, and local radio stations. It has called upon citizens and local residents’ committees living near forests to strictly adhere to preventive measures and report any potential fire hazards or dangers to the toll-free number 10-70.
The protection of forest areas will receive further reinforcement through the enactment of a new law. Sidali Saïd, the director of the protection of fauna and flora at the Directorate General of Forests, acknowledged that human activities remain the primary cause of forest fires. The new law, currently under study in parliament, will involve revisions and updated fines. Saïd emphasized that the existing legislation, dating back to 1984, requires modernization and the inclusion of certain implementing texts.
Saïd reiterated that the law unequivocally prohibits any activity that could lead to forest fires, including incineration for brush clearance, effective from June 1. The forthcoming law aims to strengthen the legal framework and increase the deterrence factor through enhanced penalties. By taking these comprehensive measures, Algeria is actively addressing the challenge of forest fires, aiming to prevent the recurrence of devastating incidents witnessed in previous years.
The commitment shown by the Algerian government in bolstering its firefighting capabilities and implementing preventive measures demonstrates the importance placed on safeguarding its valuable forests. With an
