Chikkamagaluru: A major forest fire has broken out in the shola grasslands of Kudremukh National Park, raising concerns over large-scale damage to biodiversity and rare plant species.
According to reports, fires have been spotted at more than 25 locations within the national park. Hundreds of acres of forest land are feared to have been affected.
Suspicion of deliberate act
The fire is spreading rapidly in areas such as Manikyabetta and Valikunja hills in the Kerekatte range of Sringeri taluk. Officials suspect that the fire may have been deliberately set, as multiple fire points were reported at the same time.
There are fears that rare birds nesting on the ground, reptiles and small animals may have been affected by the fire.
Public anger over alleged negligence
Local residents have expressed anger, alleging that forest officials have not visited the spot despite the fire continuing for nearly a week. Environmentalists claimed that no fire lines were created and watch towers were not properly maintained.
They also alleged that the absence of forest watchers contributed to the situation.
Demand for action
Residents and environmental activists have criticised the functioning of DFO Sivaram Babu and demanded immediate intervention by the Forest Minister to protect the ecologically sensitive region, which lies across the borders of Chikkamagaluru, Shivamogga, Udupi and Mangaluru districts.
