Mongabay · Climate & nature

Women Bear Firefighting Burden in Rural India

In India's Western Himalayas, women are the primary first responders to forest fires, risking their safety with little formal support or pay.

Uttarakhand, the most fire-prone state, faces extended wildfire seasons due to high-elevation warming, impacting its extensive forests which are vital for water, firewood, and fodder.

Climate change exacerbates fire risk and agricultural challenges, leading to male migration and leaving women to manage farms, livestock, and fire defense.

Women's traditional role of collecting firewood places them on the frontlines when fires erupt.

While men may be hired as paid fire watchers, women are often called upon to help without pay or protective gear.

Community efforts involve women spontaneously organizing to extinguish fires, as described by a village forest council head.

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