The latest forest fire in Ecuador was recorded yesterday in Guayaquil, on Narcisa de Jesús Avenue; in the early morning of the same day, another one was controlled in Loja, in the south of the country. The losses refer to natural habitats, but there are also economic effects.
In most cases, forest fires are caused by people’s irresponsibility.
It is not enough to control the fire, which in the case of Loja leaves 100 hectares of damage to flora and fauna in the sectors of Nangora, Yamba and Granadillo, in the parish of Malacatos in the canton. This and other fires should be investigated if they were caused, and those responsible should bear the costs they caused in addition to the penalty provided by law.
The forest fire in Loja affected at least 125 hectares of vegetation
Extinguishing a forest fire requires the mobilization of trained firefighters and equipment to hard-to-reach areas. Human lives are also at risk.
At the end of August, helicopters were mobilized to extinguish the forest fire in the Quita canyon. It was equipment from the Capital Fire Service and the National Police which could be used for other emergencies, but which also represents a high cost of use.
A forest fire was reported on September 4 this year on the Narcisa de Jesús highway
The Comprehensive Organic Penal Code (COIP) states that “a person who directly or indirectly causes a fire or incites the commission of such acts, in native or planted forests, shall be punished with imprisonment from one to three years”; If the offense was committed in protected, sensitive or endangered areas, the highest penalty increased by one third will be applied.
The law exists, in order to create awareness among citizens, it is necessary to apply it rigorously and adhere to justice. Farmers who maintain the practice of forest burning are also subject to sanctions if they cause a forest fire. In that case, they face a prison sentence of up to six months.
It is necessary to raise awareness that harming nature has a high price for the planet, but also for the country. (OR)
Source: Eluniverso
Mario Twitchell is an accomplished author and journalist, known for his insightful and thought-provoking writing on a wide range of topics including general and opinion. He currently works as a writer at 247 news agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
