Fire rages for 2nd day at Rajaji National Park

Haridwar: The fire that broke out on the edges of the Rajaji National Park in Haridwar raged on for the second day.

It has now moved closer to the Chandi temple, that's not too far from the Kumbh mela site.

Forest fires are common during summer months but officials say strong wind is helping the fire spread.

"Last night it had reached near the Chandi Mandir. We along with the fire and forest departments put it out to make sure that it does not spread," said S Krishna, Assistant Superintendent of Police, Haridwar.

No casualty has been reported so far. Officials have stopped the ropeway to the temple and the number of pilgrims is also being regulated.

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Rajaji National Park is spread over 800 square kilometers and is home to 315 species of birds and 23 species of mammals including elephants and tigers. Park officials say they are closely monitoring the movement of the fire.