On the day when the entire world observed World Earth Day a part of hill located between Seethammadhara and Arilova was set on fire by some locals to collect firewood.
Though it is a livelihood issue for them, the damage it causes seems to have not reached them. The incident occurred close on the heels of forest fire on Tirumala hills which became a subject of discussion on the preparedness of forest officials to contain its outbreak.
“There is a need to sensitise people on protecting the trees and hills and the people who source their income on firewood should dissuaded and offered alternate methods of livelihood,” G. Srinivas, an environmental activist, said.
