Mexico City Launches 2024 Forest Fire Operation

Martí Batres, Mexico City Mayor, unveiled the Forest Fire Operation 2024, orchestrated by the Ministry of Environment (SEDEMA) through the Commission for Natural Resources and Rural Development (CORENADR) and the National Forestry Commission (CONAFOR). The initiative aims to protect and implement timely fire combat strategies across the city's 87,000ha of conservation land.

The operation, in collaboration with the Comprehensive Risk Management and Civil Protection Secretariat (SGIRPC) and the Heroic Fire Department (HCB), will involve the collaboration of 2,500 fighters from the Altépetl Bienestar Social Program, and 500 CORENADR brigade members. Additionally, the initiative boasts four regional radio centers, the State Fire Management Center, 622 communication devices, 164 vehicles for brigade transport, four motor pump trucks, and 13 camp towers. 

Batres emphasized that Mexico City has become a national example in forest fire combat effectiveness, leading in smoke column detection, response time, and extinguishing, crediting the success to the dedicated forest brigades. He highlighted administrative actions, such as strengthening penalties for illegal tree logging and eliminating the rural land concept to focus solely on Conservation Land.

Marina Robles, Director, SEDEMA, expressed gratitude to the brigade members, acknowledging Mexico City's recognition for its commitment to environmental management. She pointed out the city's achievements, including the discovery of 42 new bird species due to enhanced ecosystems and the planting of over 43 million plant species in 2023.

Myriam Urzúa, Ministry of Comprehensive Risk Management and Civil Protection, stressed the importance of individual roles in protecting Conservation Land during dry season, promoting ongoing collaboration between institutions, and implementing risk reduction and resilience strategies.

Columba Jazmín López, Director General, CORENADR, detailed the radiofrequency system's 98% coverage over Conservation Land, facilitating communication with the C5 Command Center and the HCB. Mexico City's unique Forest Fire Attention Protocol under the Incident Command System received national recognition for minimizing affected areas, rapid response, and shorter fire durations.

Luis Meneses, Director, CONAFOR, highlighted joint training with CORENADR for fighter certification and the establishment of the State Fire Management Committee. Moreover, he pointed out that the organization has invested MX$13.4 million (US$779,037.1) in 25 environmental projects, including the Urban Forest Support Program for the restoration of San Juan de Aragon Forest.

Juan Manuel Pérez, Director General, Heroic Fire Department, underlined the department’s vital role in training and coordination with CORENADR, emphasizing the importance of the Comprehensive Risk Management Secretariat's involvement.