The flames were visible from miles away as the fire spread rapidly through the forest.

Officials said the blaze posed a serious threat to wildlife and valuable trees in the area. Authorities fear extensive losses, particularly as nearly 4,000 saplings had been planted in the affected zone last year.

Personnel from the Forest Department and the Rescue services are engaged in efforts to contain and extinguish the fire.

The cause of the blaze was not immediately known. Authorities are monitoring the situation as firefighting operations continue.