Odisha: Raging Forest Fire Engulfs Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary Again

Mayurbhanj: Following a brief two-week respite, wildfire erupted once again in the Similipal Tiger Reserve in Mayurbhanj district on Wednesday, engulfing vast areas and affecting the endangered flora and fauna in the park.

According to reports, the menacing forest fire has spread to over 47 different areas under the south zone of Similipal Forest range which has been captured by satellites.

[caption id="attachment_530963" align="aligncenter" width="750"] Satellite Image Of Similipal Forest Fire[/caption]

It is suspected that the present heat wave condition sweeping the State may have set the forest on fire. However, the actual reason behind the fire is still not known.

No statements have been issued by any of the concerned government agencies regarding the wildfire so far.

It’s worth mentioning here that the Similipal Tiger Reserve was affected by a massive wildfire for 10 long days last month and consumed over thousands of trees.

While the state is still battling to contain the forest fire devouring the valuable woods in different areas, the back to back fire incidents at Similipal is worrisome.