Fire in Satkosia spreads

ANGUL: The massive fire which broke out in Satkosia wildlife sanctuary area three days back has spread to most parts threatening wildlife.Out of the five forest ranges, at least four have come under its rage posing serious threat to animals and the rare forest cover of the sanctuary inhabited by elephants and tigers.The billowing fire and a pall of heavy smoke over the adjoining areas have raised concerns among the locals.The fire, unlike the previous year, is on a massive-scale, said a local attributing it to lack of adequate measures by the Forest Department. They took strong exception to the fact that range officers of Satkosia stay in Angul and thus oblivious to the seriousness of the situation.DFO SS Mishra, however, blamed some locals for causing the fire despite the awareness meetings conducted at villages. The fire broke out for lack of rain but the situation is under control. Forest Department squads have been rushed to the affected areas to contain the fire, he added.