Halifax, August 14(HS): As Canada endures its second‑worst wildfire season on record, Nova Scotia has ignited a fierce public debate by imposing some of the most stringent fire‑prevention measures in its history — including a province‑wide ban on hiking, fishing, and motorized access to wooded areas.
The unprecedented restrictions, announced last week, carry fines of up to C$25,000 ($18,000), with a government tip line set up to report violators. Premier Tim Houston defended what critics have branded “draconian” measures, calling the province a “tinderbox” without rainfall since June and noting that 97% of wildfires in the region are caused by human activity.
“People may want to hike, but imagine being trapped in the woods with a fire raging around you,” Houston said during a briefing. Twelve people have already been fined — including a military veteran who intentionally broke the ban to mount a legal challenge, receiving a near‑record penalty just under C$29,000.
Safety vs. Freedom
The Canadian Constitution Foundation blasted the policy as a “dangerous example of safetyism and creeping authoritarianism”, while some locals, journalists, and political commentators argued the move is a necessary sacrifice given the two fires a day the province has faced on average over the past week.
Neighboring Atlantic provinces have followed suit: New Brunswick has barred public land use in high‑risk areas, and Newfoundland and Labrador have banned off‑road vehicles in forests, with fines of up to C$150,000.
Nationwide Crisis
Across Canada, more than 470 blazes remain out of control, including one threatening the outskirts of Halifax. Military and coast guard reinforcements are aiding firefighting operations, as other hotspots burn in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, with far‑above‑average activity in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario.
Experts warn climate change is heightening the conditions for megafires — hotter temperatures, drier landscapes, and longer fire seasons — pushing officials toward strict prevention measures that are sparking social and political friction.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
