Bengaluru, 23 Jan

Ahead of the Ratha Saptami festival, Forest Minister on Friday urged forest and wildlife department officials to remain on high alert as rising temperatures increase the risk of forest fires. Ratha Saptami, also known as Surya Jayanti, will be observed on 25 January.

Chairing a video conference with department officials, Khandre directed the use of drone cameras for surveillance wherever available, intensified patrolling, and heightened vigilance in fire-prone and sensitive areas.

“Strict vigilance must be maintained to prevent damage to forest resources due to fires,” Khandre said.

The minister also instructed officials to ensure adequate availability of fodder and drinking water for wildlife during the summer months. He asked them to supply water to forest ponds through solar pumps connected to borewells.

Referring to festivals such as Shivaratri, Ugadi and Deepavali, a statement from his office noted that devotees of Lord Mahadeshwara traditionally undertake padayatras through forest routes to reach Male Mahadeshwara Hills. In this context, Khandre ordered the installation of drone cameras along footpaths and stairway routes for continuous monitoring.

He also directed the formation of teams comprising forest staff, home guards and local personnel to assist devotees. Officials were asked to approach the Male Mahadeshwara Hills Development Authority and the district administration to bear the required expenditure.

Devotees from Mandya, Mysuru, Ramanagara, Bengaluru and other districts cross the Cauvery, reach Basavanakatte in Hanur taluk, and trek through several forest villages to reach the shrine. With an increase in wildlife population, such padayatras have become potentially risky. Khandre instructed officials to counsel devotees sensitively and cautioned against overnight stays in forest fringes or habitations.