The fires are most frequent between altitudes of 800–2,200 meters, on south and west-facing slopes. Researchers point to human activity as the primary ignition source for the forest fire
For the first time, the state will move beyond traditional penalties, invoking a stringent "legal triad" to prosecute those intentionally or negligently setting fire to the state’s green lungs.
Forest Department teams have made several attempts to reach the core fire zone but were repeatedly forced to retreat due to sheer rock faces, steep inclines and the constant risk of falling debris.
In areas where reforestation efforts were underway, the impact has been particularly harsh. Plantation sites reported significant losses, with saplings being submerged or destroyed.
