Devastating Blaze Strikes Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

A massive fire engulfed close to 100 hectares of forest in the Sulthan Bathery forest range within the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, causing extensive damage to the ecosystem. The fire, which originated in the Karassery area before spreading to neighboring regions, posed a significant challenge to firefighting efforts. Despite the swift response of three units of the Fire and Rescue Services force and the combined efforts of forest department personnel and local residents, it took nearly six hours to bring the flames under control.

The incident underscores the ongoing threat of forest fires in the sanctuary, exacerbated by factors such as dry vegetation, high temperatures, and strong winds. Wildlife authorities express concern over the impact of the blaze on the sanctuary’s biodiversity, with reports of injuries sustained by lower mammals and reptiles adding to the environmental toll.