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In his message to Dr. K.K. Paul, the Governor of Uttarakhand, the President has said “I am sad and distressed to know about the massive fires which have affected large areas of the state, causing loss of lives and air pollution as well as damage to environment."  

 

He also said, "I share the grief of those who have lost their near and dear ones and extend my sympathies to all whose lives have been affected. I applaud the efforts of the state government and all rescue personnel as well as civil society organizations to save the environment and our biodiversity as well as human lives. My prayers and good wishes are with the people of Uttarakhand at this difficult juncture."  

According to media reports, the pre-monsoon forest fire began as early as February and has engulfed 1900 hectares of forest land in 13 districts of Uttarakhand.

 

Authorities are finding it difficult to contain the fire which is being fanned by dry weather, high temperatures, and windy conditions.

 

It has also been reported that one of the worst hit areas are the state's wildlife reserves, with 198 hectares gutted in the Jim Corbett National Park,  70 hectares in Rajaji Tiger Reserve and 60 hectares in Kedarnath Musk Deer Sanctuary.