Forest officials intensify fire prevention efforts in Chittoor, Annamayya districts

Soaring mercury levels and the challenging terrain of southern Eastern Ghats pose potential forest fire risks across Chittoor and Annamayya districts, with several vulnerable pockets entering a critical phase during April and May.

The forested hills in the region are marked by steep slopes, rocky terrain, and a range of vegetation densities, including valuable timber species. Similar conditions prevail in other forested pockets such as Horsley Hills and the adjoining hill ranges along Andhra Pradesh-Karnataka border, where accessibility remains limited, and fire response is often delayed.