Karnataka: The fire that broke out in the Bandipur, an Important Tiger reserve of India created a fear harming the wildlife. However, the quick action of the forest officials after they noticed the fire, helped in controlling it before it could create damage to wildlife.
According to the officials, the watchers first saw the fire at Moolapur hill forests in Bandipur at noon 2.30. On tip off, the forest personnel rushed at the spot and succeeded in extinguishing the fire. However, about 2.5 acres of forest burnt in the incident. But, fortunately there is farm to wildlife as it was ground fire.
Officials says that Bandipur has dry deciduous vegetation, making it susceptible to fires and more than 50 per cent of the forest is covered with lantana which is highly combustible.
As a precautionary measure, the forest officials have constructed a total of 20 watchtowers to keep round the clock vigil. Also the fire engines have been deployed in sensitive areas to respond to emergencies.
Awareness programmes have been held and everyday water is sprayed along the highway passing through the forest so that any untoward incident from the lighted cigarette butts does not take place. The water holes have water due to the good monsoon, said the officials.
