Fire in Nanmangalam forest doused, damage yet to be ascertained, say officials

“Nesting birds were found burnt and there were flutter from the birds for more than one hour,” recalled a forest guard. Nanmangalam forest is a dry scrub jungle and is a home for small mammals like jackal, palm civet and anteater. The forest is also a home for more than 30 terrestrial birds and the vegetation comprises eucalyptus and native trees.

“The extent of damage can be ascertained only by tomorrow. Trees have shed dry leaves due to increase in temperature. Police has been asked to register a case and the investigations are on,” Tambaram forest ranger Vidyapathi told DT Next. The cause of fire will be ascertained through police investigation and the fire is controlled, the ranger added.