In just one day, at least 10 forest fires were recorded simultaneously in different provinces of the region. The most worrying emergencies were those reported in the Tacarpana sector in La Oroya and on the Tarma to Chanchamayo route. There, the fire started at the top of the hill in the Huaracayo sector, the other fire was recorded in Carpapata and spread throughout the hill causing rocks to fall on the central highway. Hundreds of vehicles were stranded and one person was injured with burns. Firefighters from companies close to the areas worked for hours and despite the great shortages they have, they managed to control the situation using their shovels and the help of the population.
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“Unfortunately, people do not understand that they should not set fires in the fields. The one in Huaracayo was the most dangerous and the inhabitants are prey to fear, fear and worry.” said David Vásquez, head of the 58th Fire Company of Tarma.
In Huancayo, more than 30 firefighters worked for almost 15 hours straight to try to put out fires in Mito, Hualhuas, San Jerónimo, Concepción, and El Tambo, according to the chief firefighter of the Junín Centro Department, Commander Arif Torres.
Shortcomings in companies
Commander Torres regretted the lack of personnel and tools necessary to deal with this type of emergency and also the lack of awareness of the residents who set fires in the countryside. “The lack of tools is something that happens year after year, unfortunately we do not have the attention of the authorities. We lack personal protection equipment, forestry tools for the 5 companies, tanks,” said.
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Serious consequences
According to the National Forest and Wildlife Service – Serfor Junín, the forest fires affected bushes, shrubs, Eucalyptus and Pine plantations and forests in the Central Jungle. Until last Wednesday, no dead fauna had been recorded.
“Forest fires affect the entire environment, smoke turns into carbon dioxide, which causes global warming, babies and older adults can get sick due to poor air quality,” said Christian Quispe, a professional from the Technical Administration Area of Forestry and Wildlife of Serfor, who also recommended that authorities prioritize forest fire prevention plans and equip firefighters.
