Bhubaneswar, April 8 -- With summer at its peak, Odisha has witnessed forest fire in around 8,000 points so far, till April 7. Moreover, around 99.5 percent forest fire points have been successfully doused.

PCCF Debadutta Biswal on Monday informed that the incidents of forest fire have reduced due to awareness among people and rainfall activities. Forest fire was reported in 27,000 points during the same period last year, he said.

According to Biswal, there are reports of fire in around 200 points today. Sources said that incidents of forest fire is more in Malkangiri district due to agricultural related activities, collection of Mahula flower and for poaching of animals as well. It has also been observed that some miscreants are settin...