Chikkamagaluru: A massive forest fire has erupted in the Balige and Mavinahola forest areas near Horanadu in Kalasa Taluk, causing extensive damage to the region’s biodiversity.

The fire has already engulfed several acres of forest land, with flames spreading rapidly across the hilly terrain. Forest department officials and local residents are making relentless efforts to extinguish the fire. However, the remote location and steep landscape have made it difficult for fire engines to reach the affected areas. Instead, firefighters and volunteers are using green branches and other available resources to control the flames.

This incident follows a series of recent wildfires in the Chikkamagaluru district, particularly in the Mullayanagiri and Kemmanugundi regions, where vast areas of rare and valuable flora have been destroyed. The fire in Mullayanagiri Hills was reportedly triggered by intense heat, spreading across hundreds of acres, while the Kemmanugundi hill station also witnessed a blaze, prompting efforts from both forest department officials and firefighters to contain the damage.

With rising temperatures and dry weather conditions, the risk of forest fires has significantly increased in the region. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and are implementing preventive measures to curb further outbreaks.