Forest fires at Karisparu, Region Eight, have damaged agricultural lands and housing materials and are threatening several homes and the main bridge linking the village to its airstrip, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has reported.
The commission said a joint team comprising personnel from the Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Fire Service, Guyana Forestry Commission and CDC was on the ground assessing the damage, identifying areas at risk and undertaking response measures.
According to the CDC, initial reports indicated that the fires began with the burning of garbage in the community and subsequently spread out of control.
Preliminary assessments identified damage to agricultural lands and housing materials, while several residential properties remained under threat. The commission expressed particular concern about the potential impact on the bridge spanning Karisparu Creek, which provides access between the airstrip and the village.
The joint team also met residents to discuss forest fire prevention, the dangers of open burning and practices intended to reduce the risk of further outbreaks.
The CDC said the government had established a multi-agency committee earlier in the year in response to what it described as “Super El Niño conditions”. The committee’s work includes public awareness activities across the ten administrative regions, monitoring potential threats and preparing to mobilise resources.
The commission said it was continuing to monitor the situation at Karisparu and coordinate the response. It urged residents to avoid open burning, particularly during dry conditions, and to exercise caution when undertaking activities that could cause forest fires.
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