The Fiji Police Force has launched an investigation into a fire suspected of being deliberately set, which destroyed about 90 hectares of pine forest on Ono Island, Kadavu. The fire, which started on Monday in the Naqara Pine Scheme, was contained after two days through the dedicated efforts of Naqara villagers and local authorities.
Minister for Forestry, Alitia Bainivalu, confirmed police involvement in uncovering the fire’s cause, but specific details have not been disclosed. In her remarks, Minister Bainivalu expressed gratitude to the local community and the Fiji Police Force for their commitment in battling the fire. She pointed out the fire’s disruption of trees that were nearing harvest, indicating its significant impact on local forestry operations.
The Fiji Pine Trust is conducting initial assessments of the fire’s damage, while the Ministry of Forestry has set up a team to examine the affected areas and explore recovery options for any salvageable timber. Minister Bainivalu assured the people of Kadavu of the government’s steadfast support, highlighting cooperation with the Fiji Pine Trust and local communities to develop recovery plans and enhance future fire prevention measures.
This incident underscores the vulnerability of Fiji’s forestry sector to both natural and potentially human-made threats, stressing the necessity of effective fire management systems. Efforts by the Ministry, including significant investments in enhancing maritime pine operations, highlight the sector’s vital role in Fiji’s economy. The forestry and logging industry is a crucial economic contributor, generating approximately $31.1 million in 2022.
The fire on Ono Island emphasizes the urgency of reinforcing sustainable forestry practices and safeguarding affected communities. It also reflects broader challenges posed by climate change on the forestry sector, like increased fire risks and the difficulties of maintaining monoculture plantations under shifting environmental conditions.
Despite these challenges, Minister Bainivalu’s dedication to preserving essential forestry operations presents a hopeful outlook. The ongoing resilience and strategic planning are expected to enhance strategies fostering ecological and economic sustainability in Fiji’s forestry sector, paving the way for a future marked by better preparedness and stability.