Forest department officials suspect that the blaze may have been triggered by the rising afternoon temperatures, which left the dry vegetation vulnerable to ignition.
Tirupati: A fire broke out late on Thursday in the Seshachalam forest area near Tirumala, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and sparking concern among devotees and residents alike.
The fire reportedly originated near the Tumburu Theertham, a sacred site close to Papavinasanam, and quickly spread across the dense forest region. Flames were visible from Tirumala town, alarming locals and pilgrims.
Forest department officials suspect that the blaze may have been triggered by the rising afternoon temperatures, which left the dry vegetation vulnerable to ignition. Several trees have already been charred, with significant damage reported in the affected zones.
Officials from the Forest Wing of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), along with field staff and fire personnel, rushed to the location to bring the flames under control. Though light rains in the night offered temporary relief, the fire reignited later and spread over a larger area due to dry winds.
Efforts to douse the fire are ongoing, with forest officials working through the night to prevent it from advancing further towards sensitive zones around the temple town. No casualties have been reported so far.
