The forest fire that erupted on the hills of Gudilova on Thursday was brought under control by Friday morning. Since morning, 100 fire personnel put out minor fires, preventing them from raging and affecting the surrounding eight villages.
Following the Chief Minister’s instructions, the Chief Secretary coordinated the operation. The Defence Secretary was contacted and the Air Commodore at Hyderabad was asked to send helicopters to pour water and extinguish the fire.
The Ministry of Defence responded in the shortest possible time and sent the helicopters, an official release said. Four helicopters of the IAF had begun operations on Friday afternoon.
Minister for Panchayatiraj Ch. Ayyanna Patrudu and HRD Minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao reached the spot and discussed the situation with officials. Director-General of Fire Services N. Sambasiva Rao and Collector in-charge Pravin Kumar monitored the situation. District Fire Officer Gnana Sundaram led the personnel in the operation.
