Jalpaiguri, Nov. 6 -- A massive fire has engulfed a large stretch of Chalta Forest in Kalimpong district, destroying trees and vegetation and posing a serious threat to wildlife. The incident has triggered concern among local residents and environmentalists, who fear the flames could spread to the adjoining hill forests.
According to local sources, unidentified miscreants are suspected of deliberately setting fire to dry kans grass in the forest. The flames reportedly spread rapidly from the grassland to a wider stretch of woodland. However, the exact cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.
Environmentalists fear that the blaze could cause extensive ecological damage if it spreads to the nearby hills. Apart from destroying vegetation, the fire threatens several species of wildlife inhabiting the forest. There are also concerns that elephants and other wild animals may enter nearby settlements in search of safer shelter.
Environmentalist Nafsor Ali said: "There is a large stretch of kans grassland in this forest, which has now dried up. The fire could have started naturally or someone may have deliberately set it. This area is home to elephants and various other wild animals.
These animals could enter human settlements to escape the fire. The forest also has several plants used in Ayurvedic medicines. Everything is being destroyed. If the flames spread to the nearby Kalimpong Hills, the situation could become disastrous. We urge the administration to take immediate steps to control the fire."
Environmentalists have demanded an investigation into the cause of the fire and strict legal action against those responsible.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.