Curbs on entry to TN forest near border

In the light of the recent Kurangini wildfire accident, which claimed many lives, the Tamil Nadu Forest Department has decided to restrict entry of visitors to forest areas near Ramakkalmedu, Cumbom Mettu, Bodimettu, Anakkaramettu, Thevaram Mettu, and some portions of Chathurangapara.

An official of the Tamil Nadu Forest Department said tourists often entered the grasslands on the border, posing threat of fire on the dried grasslands. There were no restrictions on the use of border routes. Those living near the border of the two States use nearly a dozen routes to transport goods. Workers too use the routes to reach cardamom plantations.

The official said more forest officers had been deployed for monitoring the movement of people on the border forest areas.

There is apprehension in certain quarters that the restrictions would negatively affect the tourism prospects of Ramakkalmedu, Pandikuzhy, and Chathurangapara.