Chikkamagaluru: Forest minister Eshwara B Khandre on Saturday ordered an inquiry into forest fires reported at 25 locations in Kudremukh National Park. He convened an emergency meeting and directed that the investigation be led by Mangaluru circle forest officer Mariyappa Karikalan.At a meeting with senior officials at his official residence in Bengaluru, Khandre said some individuals, driven by superstition, and some miscreants had set the forest on fire, and that the lack of fire watchers had led to the disaster. He instructed officials to conduct a comprehensive investigation and submit a report within seven days, along with recommendations for action against those responsible.Khandre said some residents living within the Kudremukh forest had voluntarily expressed their willingness to relocate. He directed officials to prepare a detailed report on the matter, including the relocation of forest dwellers, to be included in the annual action plan under the CAMPA fund, and to be submitted immediately.He also directed that those who intentionally set the forest on fire be identified and proceeded against legally, and that recommendations be made if any negligence by officers or staff is found.
