The forest surveillance program that tracks visitors through mobile devices began operating in pilot mode in the Moscow region, with the aim of supporting fire prevention and rapid response. As explained to socialbites.ca, the deputy chairman of the Moscow region forestry committee emphasized that the system helps monitor crowds in potentially risky forest zones and, if needed, trigger preventive actions. Visitors are encouraged to use only established recreation areas and to follow safety guidelines.
There are nearly two million hectares of state forest funds in the Moscow region, a vast expanse that requires careful planning of patrol routes and resource deployment. The pilot program provides an additional tool for this task, described as a billing mechanism. Officials review burned areas annually and plan to test the system there as well. The technology allows authorities to visualize where groups of people are moving, assess current conditions, and determine when a route should be continued. If activity concentrates in areas with higher fire risk, personnel are redirected to those locations to carry out preventive measures, explain safe practices for lighting fires, and indicate where gatherings are allowed or prohibited. Specially designated picnic areas are identified across the region, offering opportunities to enjoy nature with reduced risk. If careless behavior with fire is observed, administrative actions and fines may follow. The deputy chairman stated that such measures are being implemented.
Perederiy noted that the tracking system is a necessary preventive measure for forestry professionals to establish patrol routes and respond to various situations in a timely manner.
He added that summer conditions are expected to be hot this year, underscoring the need to prevent forest fires across the region. This digital tool supports more effective decision making and preventive steps, helping clear communication about how careless fire use can lead to forest fires, damage forest resources, affect state interests, and cause smoke to drift into the capital and surrounding areas. The tool is used to clarify where attention is most needed in the forest and to focus efforts on fire-hazardous zones where crowding is anticipated.
On May 16, the Moscow Region Forestry Committee announced that the system to detect large groups of people via mobile devices had become operational. The mechanism identifies unique subscribers within a cellular network area, and if phones remain in one location for more than 15 minutes, the software records the situation. When a group appears in forest areas where fires are prohibited, rangers are alerted and can conduct a check.
Earlier notices urged residents and visitors to retreat to safe shelter locations during forest fires, underscoring the ongoing emphasis on safety and preparedness in the region.