Several hectares of forest were destroyed in a fire at Karighatta reserve forest and K. Shettihalli reserve forest near Srirangapatna, and at Belli Betta Kaval forest range near K.R. Pet on Sunday.

The devastating fire has engulfed several hectares of dry vegetation in these forest ranges, said sources in the Forest Department. Hundreds of trees, bird nests, and dry vegetation have been gutted near Allapatna, Chinnanayakanahalli, Karighatta and K. Shettihalli near Srirangapatna, and at Belli Betta Kaval near K.R. Pet, said sources.

According to a forest officer, some miscreants from nearby villages may have lit the fire. The Forest Department plans to conduct an investigation.

The fire damage is yet to be ascertained.

Haystack destroyed

Meanwhile, dry paddy grass worth several thousands of rupees was destroyed in a fire at Huli Koppalu, K.R. Pet taluk, on Sunday.