Partial Reopening of Hiking Trails, Lifting of Administrative Order, Ban on Carrying Fire Sources
Wildfire Alert Downgraded from "Serious" to "Caution"... Patrols and Guidance to Be Further Strengthened
Pohang City announced on April 18 that, due to the recent rise in temperatures and rainfall which have alleviated dry conditions in forest areas, it will fully lift the administrative order restricting wildfire prevention activities throughout the city starting April 20.
Previously, the city had implemented strict preventive measures, including prohibiting entry into forests, banning burning activities, and prohibiting smoking near forested areas (including golf courses), since March 27, after the national wildfire disaster crisis alert was raised to the "serious" level.
Since April 10, some restrictions were partially eased, such as the reopening of certain hiking trails, and a full lifting of restrictions has now been decided for April 20.
However, even after the administrative order is lifted, caution is still required until May 15, which is designated as the wildfire caution period under the Forest Protection Act. Therefore, entering the mountains while carrying fire sources, flammable materials, or ignition sources remains prohibited. Existing entry-restricted areas and closed hiking trails will also continue to be off-limits.
As of 3 p.m. on April 13, the wildfire alert was downgraded from "serious" to "caution." Nevertheless, the city will continue to strengthen patrols and guidance activities for wildfire prevention, and will take strict measures such as imposing fines for violations, in order to proactively eliminate wildfire risk factors.
A Pohang City official stated, "Thanks to the active cooperation of citizens, we have been able to maintain a stable situation without any wildfire-related damage," and urged, "Please continue to actively participate in wildfire prevention efforts until the end."
Pohang City Hall
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
