Major forest fire in TN: Over 20 students trapped, rescue operations underway

Theni: Over 20 students, who were on a trekking expedition, are reported to be trapped in a major forest fire in Tamil Nadu's Theni district.

On a request from chief minister E Palanisamy, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has instructed the Indian Air Force to help in rescue operations and evacuation of students.

Deputy chief minister O Panneerselvam has also rushed to the spot.

Conservator of forests, Madurai circle, R K Jegania said that the students from the college had not obtained permission for trekking, according to a Times of India report.

Theni district collector Pallavi Baldev ruled out any causality at the moment.

The district collector also informed Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman that 10-15 students have been rescued and are being brought down from the hill.

More details in the incident are awaited.