Chungbuk Deploys 3 Rental Helicopters Forward by Region for 'Wildfire Response'

[Asia Economy (Chungbuk) Reporter Jeong Il-woong] Chungbuk Province will allocate a budget of 1.8 billion KRW this year to deploy and operate three leased helicopters in three zones: northern, central, and southern regions.

According to the province on the 14th, the leased helicopters are assigned for wildfire response purposes and aim to arrive at the scene within 30 minutes (golden time) when a wildfire occurs in each zone, playing a role in wildfire prevention and minimizing damage.

In particular, the province plans to concentrate the leased helicopters during the spring and autumn seasons when wildfires occur relatively frequently, and to share real-time on-site situation with related agencies using a wildfire site video system.

Additionally, to ensure rapid response in case of wildfire occurrence, a communication system will be established among the province, cities/counties, and related agencies.

Last year, a total of 13 wildfires occurred in the Chungbuk area, a 63% decrease compared to 28 cases in 2019. The reduction in wildfires in the region is attributed to focused deployment of wildfire watchers in vulnerable areas and the operation of leased helicopters for wildfire suppression.

Previously, the province operated two leased helicopters for wildfire suppression last year, utilizing them for wildfire prevention and suppression activities, and supported 226 forestry projects including forest pest monitoring activities.

Ji Yong-gwan, head of the Forest and Greenery Division of the province, said, “We will do our best to suppress and minimize wildfire occurrences in the region to preserve nature and protect residents’ safety and property.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.