Woman sanctioned in Yaruquí for illegal burning of logs in a forest area.

In a concerning incident that occurred in Yaruquí, a woman has been sanctioned by the authorities in Quito after being caught using fire without authorization in an area near a forest. The activity, which involved burning wooden logs to produce and sell charcoal, was detected by the Metropolitan Control Agency, which acts as a regulatory body in such situations. The mayor of Quito, Pabel Muñoz, has expressed his firm intention to take drastic measures against those who threaten the environment. In his statement, he emphasized the need to impose penalties on those responsible for these activities, which are not only illegal but also pose a serious danger to the integrity of forests and the safety of the population. Unauthorized burning of materials in potentially dangerous areas has been classified as one of the primary causes of forest fires that have affected the region in recent years. This not only endangers local flora and fauna but also threatens the lives of people and their homes. The mayor's commitment is clear: these irresponsible practices must be eradicated, and a culture of respect for nature must be promoted. The applicable penalties in these cases vary and depend on the severity of the infraction. For example, minor violations are subject to fines ranging from 1 to 25 unified basic salaries, translating to fines from USD 460 to USD 1,500. These include actions such as smoking in areas prone to forest fires or obstructing access to emergency services. On the other hand, serious violations can lead to more severe fines, ranging from 3 to 45 unified basic salaries (USD 1,380 to USD 2,070). This includes unauthorized use of fire in ecosystem restoration areas or burning waste on roads and public spaces. These penalties serve as a wake-up call for those who still believe their actions have no consequences. Very serious violations, which can incur fines ranging from 5 to 75 unified basic salaries (USD 2,300 to USD 34,500), are even more concerning. Those who cause forest fires through fireworks or in fragile ecosystems face serious legal repercussions. Protecting natural areas and urban green spaces is essential for the environmental and social well-being of the city. The message from the authorities is clear: citizens must reflect on their behavior and act responsibly. Forest fires are one of the main threats facing Quito, and many of these disasters are caused by human actions that could have been avoided. Therefore, it is crucial for residents to recognize the importance of caring for and preserving their surroundings. The statistics are alarming. According to recent reports, most fires in the region have been caused by negligence or irresponsible actions of individuals who do not consider the consequences of their actions. It is vital to promote environmental education and strengthen regulations to prevent future incidents. Finally, the community must unite in the fight against these practices that endanger both the environment and people's lives. Collaboration between authorities and citizens is essential to create a safe and sustainable environment. Every action counts, and it is everyone's responsibility to protect the natural resources that surround us.