As many as 200 forest destruction cases were reported in April, down by 42% compared to the same period last year, according to the Vietnam Administration of Forestry.  

A forest destruction case discovered in Dak Nong Province in April 

Most of the cases were found in the northern Dien Bien Province's Muong Nhe District and the central highlands province of Dak Nong.

In the first four months, about 4,200 violations on forest protection regulations were reported, a 31% decrease on last year, with a total destroyed area of 252 hectares, 47% down. About 1,140 cases were discovered in April alone, a 41% decrease.

More than 2,000 wildfires hotspots were reported in April. The Vietnam Administration of Forestry said they had asked local forest ranger units to actively patrol and deal with the fires. 14 wildfires broke out last month and destroyed 23 hectares of forestland in the north. It is reported that both the number and destroyed area decreased greatly thanks to more effective protective measures.

Wildfires were mostly the result of dry weather. Locals burning forested land to create fields were also responsible.

Quang Ninh Province topped the list with two fires and 8.9 hectares of destroyed forest land. Two wildfires in Lai Chau Province destroyed 8 hectares of forest land and two wildfires destroyed one hectare of forest in Bac Giang Province.

Dtinews