A massive fire broke out in a forested area at Menamkulam near Kazhakuttom on Thursday. According to official sources, the fire first erupted deep inside the forested portion of the land, which has remained overgrown and unattended for several years. Though there are no houses immediately adjacent to the fire-hit zone, the presence of residential areas a short distance away increased concern. The firefighters focused on containing the blaze to a limited zone and creating firebreaks to stop it from advancing toward nearby residential areas and industrial establishments. Major fire in KovalamMeanwhile, another major fire was reported in Kovalam, where nearly 20 acres of land were gutted.