Odisha Forest top official claims Similipal wildfire ‘under control’

Bhubaneswar: After a two-day visit to Similipal forest area following reports of wildfire in the second-largest biosphere of Asia, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Wildlife Sashi Paul today said the situation at Similipal is under control and such fire often breaks out during summer.

The PCCF further said the claims that the forest is burning for last 10 days is false.

“The fire has only grasped dry leaves and bushes. It has not affected big trees, human life and wildlife. Such situation often arises during summer season. There is nothing to panic about it,” he said.

Also Read: Similipal Wildfire: 10 Days On, No End In Sight!

The official further said, “There is no fire in the core area. The fire has broken out in the buffer area. Only two forest ranges– Podadihi and Thakurmunda have slightly been affected. I visited the core area for two days and will submit a report in this regard to the Government.”