According to reports, over 20 college students were caught in a forest fire while trekking near Kurangani in Theni district on Sunday. Reports say, nine students have reached down the mountain. Rescue operations are currently underway and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has ordered Indian Air Force to assist with rescue efforts.

Responding to the request from the Hon @CMOTamilNadu on the forest -fire related issue -20 students are caught in Kurangani, Theni district. Instructed @IAF_MCC to help in rescue and evacuation. The Southern Command is in touch with the Collector of Theni. @ThanthiTV @pibchennai

— Nirmala Sitharaman (@nsitharaman) March 11, 2018