Summary:
“We have brought the fire under control in most areas and are trying to put it out completely,” said B.
Iqbal, Ranger, Varushanadu Reserve Forest. Lack of advanced equipment and shortage of rescue staff were major problems for the Forest department in handling tough situations. High temperature in the absence of summer rain, heavy wind and withered undergrowth helped the fire spread fast on the slopes of Varushanadu hill. Local people spotted the wildfire on Saturday evening and alerted Forest department officials. But the flames spread quickly owing to strong winds on the slopes and reached Yanaikajam area, the southern side of Varushanadu hill in Theni district, destroying the habitat of wild animals..