Vacant posts and staff shortage pose major challenges to forest protection in coastal region

Mangaluru: Forest Department’s Mangaluru circle has approximately 2.87 lakh hectares of forest area, however, the alarming reality is that there are only 197 patrolling forest rangers and forest watchers to safeguard this vast expanse.

These patrolling forest rangers and forest watchers play a crucial role in protecting the forest. They possess extensive knowledge about the forest, including its depth, breadth, and sensitive aspects. Despite their vital role, these positions have remained unfilled for the past three years, posing a significant challenge to forest protection.

Mangaluru and Kundapur Forest Division, Kudremukh Wildlife Division, as well as the social forestry department of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi district, requires 426 patrolling forest rangers. Presently, there are only 191 individuals serving in these positions, leaving a staggering 235 vacancies. Furthermore, there is a dire need for an additional 146 forest watchers, but currently, only six individuals are on duty, with no recruitment efforts made to fill the remaining 140 posts.

The Forest Department typically organizes the forest protection efforts based on “Beet Boundaries,” which consist of 2-3 villages. 2-3 Beet Boundaries form and section (Deputy RFO) and 2-3 sections form a ranger (Range officer). Regrettably, there is an acute shortage of staff in these positions,” said Mangaluru Deputy Conservator of Forests, Dr Dinesh Kumar Y.K.

Ideally, there should be one patrolling forester assigned per beat, allowing for more effective monitoring of the area. However, currently, one patrolling forest guard is responsible for 4-5 beats, resulting in heightened work pressure. Both the patrolling forest guard and observer roles require full-time attention. Forest watchers have the potential to advance in their careers and become Patrol Forest Wardens, Deputy RFOs, and Rangers. Additionally, there is a lack of sub-zonal forest officers, with 63 out of 231 posts remaining vacant.

The Forest Department faces numerous vacancies across various positions, making it imperative to conduct recruitment drives for patrolling forest rangers and forest watchers. The government has acknowledged this issue, and the final decision will be made by them,” said Dr Karikalan, Chief Conservator of Forests, Mangalore Circle.

Shockingly, the number of vacancies exceeds those currently filled. Out of a total of 995 sanctioned officer and staff positions in the Mangaluuru Circle, only 488 are occupied. This leaves a staggering 507 vacancies, which have remained unfilled for the past three years. Previously, the Forest Department conducted regular recruitments, but due to the lack of timely recruitment, the number of forest watchers has dwindled, leading to an increase in illegal activities and conflicts within the forest.