Gonikoppalu : Hundreds of acres of forest area near Mattigodu coming under Nagarahole national park area near Titimathi was in flames on March 13, Thursady with thick clouds of smoke emanating from the area.
The fire which was noticed all of a sudden has engulfed the entire area and several dried up plants and trees are gutted in the fire. The strong breeze made matters worse and the efforts of the Forest staff and fire service men to douse the fire initially went in vain.
Though public too joined hands it was of little help and there is information that precious species of flora and fauna too are feared to have been destroyed in the fire.
Vehicles were barred entry on the route near Anechowkur gate for some time due to the fire.
Forest officials said the fire was finally brought under control after great efforts. Officials also said the fire has not caused harm to elephants. The suspicion is that some miscreants have set afire the bushes along roadside resulting in the spread of the fire.
