Fire in Ravana Ella Forest Reserve Doused After Two Days, Authorities Suspect Arson

COLOMBO (News 1st) - The fire that broke out in the Ravana Ella Forest Reserve was doused early this morning after two days of intense firefighting efforts.

The Badulla District Disaster Management Centre has issued a warning regarding the risk of rocks falling onto the Ella-Wellawaya road due to the instability of the rocks at the rock's summit, which was affected by the fire.

The fire erupted on February 13 at the Ella Gap viewpoint, a popular tourist spot, before spreading into the Ravana Ella Forest Reserve.

Police, tri-forces, and officials from the wildlife and forest conservation departments joined forces to douse the fire.

Deputy Director of the Badulla District Disaster Management Centre E.M.L. Udaya Kumara said that after extensive efforts, the fire was finally doused this morning.

The fire caused significant damage to the Ravana Ella Forest Reserve.

Authorities suspect that the fire may have been deliberately set.