Theni forest fire: Death toll rises to 10, CM says trekkers did not have permission for expedition

Health Secretary J Radhakrishnan said rescue teams comprising officials and health department personnel were camping in the hills.

Read | Death toll rises to 10, CM Palaniswamy announces relief of Rs 4 lakh to next of kin of deceased

According to CM Palaniswamy, the trekkers who were caught in the forest fire did not have permission for an expedition. “Without permission, they embarked on a trekking expedition. Trekkers should climb hills only after taking the government’s nod,” he had said in his native Salem district.

Police said a few officials were deputed to make enquiries at the office of the organisation, that had organised the expedition, but found it to be closed. The website of the organisation also did not have details of those managing its affairs.

As per rules, those wanting to go on a trekking expedition to the hills need to apply to the conservator of forests or district forest officer in advance. The trekker will have to list out their contact address, blood group and health issues, if any. Prior permission must be obtained from the Chief Wildlife Warden or local wildlife authorities in case the trekking area falls under a national park or wildlife sanctuary.

While seven of the victims were from Chennai, the others were from Erode district, the CM said in a statement. “I was anguished to know that 10 persons were killed in the forest fire,” he said.

Palaniswami said a probe has been ordered into the incident and authorities have been directed to take stringent action against those who allegedly arranged for the expedition without permission. “The district administration and health department officials had been instructed to ensure best medical treatment to those admitted to local hospitals,” he said.

Following the incident, the Kerala governnent today banned the temporarily banned trekking in state forest areas. A decision to this effect was taken by the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority, a statement issued by the chief minister’s office said.

(With PTI inputs)