15th March 2019

ERODE: A massive fire broke out in the Kermalam reserve forest in the Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (STR) here on Thursday, destroying nearly 300 acres forest land.

“We are trying our best to put out the fire. However, it would take at least two days,” a senior forest officer said.

The fire first broke out at Gethesal and soon spread to Mavallam and Kottarai villages in the Kermalam reserve forest.

According to the officer, flames have engulfed the forest area between Asanur and Kermalam. “The fire first broke out at Gethesal and soon spread to Mavallam and Kottarai villages in the Kermalam reserve forest.”

He said huge trees and herbal plants were completely destroyed, and electric poles and live wires were damaged in the fire. “Exact details could be ascertained only after two days.”

The officer said road transportation between Asanur and Kollegal via Kermalam was stopped since (Thursday) morning.

Following the fire, the forest department has closed all forest roads. As a result, Kermalam village was completely cut off from other hamlets and villages in the area.

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