Forest fire serious problem in hilly areas: SC

The Supreme Court Monday said forest fire is a serious problem in the hilly states, especially in summers and the reason behind it is the large presence of pine trees in most of the areas.

A vacation bench of Justices Sanjiv Khanna and B R Gavai allowed the petitioner to file a copy of the directions of the Uttarakhand High Court on the issue of forest fire.

"Petitioner-in-person prays for sometime to place additional documents or papers on record. He is permitted to do so. List thereafter," the bench said.

The top court was hearing a plea by advocate Rituparn Uniyal seeking urgent steps to protect forests, wildlife and birds from wildfire in Uttarakhand, saying forest blazes have increased over the years and cause huge loss to the environment.

At the outset, the apex court said the petitioner should approach the high court as it will have a better view of the matter.

However, Uniyal said the Uttarakhand High Court has already passed a slew of directions on the issue and sought time ..