Chikmagalur: Probe ordered into 25 blazes in 24 hours in Kudremukh

Mangalore Today News Network

Bengaluru, Mar 21, 2026: A series of forest fires that affected the shola grasslands in the Kerekatte range of Kudremukh National Park since Thursday has prompted the Forest Department to order an inquiry.

Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre, after reviewing the situation with senior officials, expressed concern over reports of fires breaking out at 25 different locations within a day. He stated that the incidents appeared to be man-made and pointed to a shortage of fire watchers as a key factor. He directed officials to conduct a thorough probe and submit a report within seven days.

The minister also reiterated instructions to prepare a proposal for the voluntary relocation of residents living inside the park, particularly those who have already shown willingness to move.

Suspecting deliberate causes behind the fires, Khandre asked officials to investigate the matter in detail, including examining whether there was any lapse on the part of staff in responding to the situation.

M. Sivarambabu, Deputy Conservator of Forests in the Kudremukh Wildlife Division, said an assessment of the affected area is underway. “Preliminary estimates suggest around 25 acres of shola grassland were damaged. The fire was brought under control late on Thursday night,” he said.