Enquiry officer begins probe into forest fire

The Enquiry Officer appointed by the Tamil Nadu government to probe the circumstances leading to the deaths of several trekkers in a forest fire in the Kurangani hills, began its probe today.

Atulya Mishra, Principal secretary, revenue and disaster management, began his enquiry into the fire, which has so far claimed 17 lives.

Officials said he interacted with personnel of the forest, ambulance and police departments today and is expected to soon visit the site of the fire.

The Terms of Reference include circumstances leading to the incident, a review of procedure in the Forest Department for regulation and permission for trekking in reserved forest areas.

Mishra will also go into "role and lapses, if any," on the part of trekking organisers and forest officials.

He has been tasked with submitting a report to the government within two months, along with recommendations to avoid such incidents in future