Dehradun, April 16 -- Chief secretary Anand Bardhan on Wednesday directed the forest department and associated scientific institutions to develop a prediction model for forest fires, on the lines of disaster forecasting systems, to anticipate potential incidents and minimise loss of life and property. Chairing a meeting with senior government officials at the state secretariat on forest fire prevention, Bardhan said all meetings with committees and stakeholders must be held in January each year to ensure preparedness ahead of the fire season. He also directed that a "dedicated pressure pipeline system be ensured for fire hydrants installed at various locations in the state", asking authorities to prepare a proposal at the earliest. The chief secretary instructed the forest department to launch a special drive to inspect all fire-prevention arrangements and ensure proper maintenance of vehicles and equipment. He also called for security arrangements at all 'lisa' (resin) depots in accordance with established protocols. Bardhan further stressed the "need to promote the disposal of pirul (pine needles) collected from forests and encourage the production of pirul briquettes". "Maximum units for making briquettes should be established across the state so that they can emerge as a viable alternative fuel," he said. According to the chief secretary, the initiative would help reduce the risk of forest fires while increasing the availability of alternative fuel. He added that it could improve the economic prospects of self-help groups and may also be linked to carbon credit mechanisms. The forest fire season in the state began on February 15. Such fires are typically reported between February and June, with peak activity in May and June. They have a significant impact on biodiversity, affecting soil microorganisms, wildlife, insects, birds and communities living near forested areas. Uttarakhand has a forest cover of 24,303.83 sq km, accounting for 45.44% of its geographical area. The presence of human habitations near forested regions increases the risk of fires. Of the total forest cover, 0.10% falls under the extremely fire-prone category, 12.92% under very highly fire-prone, 27.64% under highly fire-prone, 20.01% under moderately fire-prone and 39.33% under the less fire-prone category....