Major fire at Karnataka’s Bandipur Tiger Reserve

Bengaluru: A major fire that broke out in Karnataka's Bandipur Tiger Reserve has damaged thousands of acres of forest land.  However, dry grass and strong winds have aided the fire in spreading towards the roads on National Highway 67. Ooty to Mysore routes had to be closed for vehicles.

The forest department has banned forest safaris as a precautionary measure. Forest minister Satish Jarkiholi has also paid a visit to the affected area. 

The Bandipur Tiger Reserve covers an area of 87,400 hectares and was home to vulnerable species like elephants, gaurs, tigers and Indian rock pythons.