Puri, Jan 26: A massive fire broke out in Balukhand wildlife sanctuary beside Puri-Konark Marine drive on Wednesday.

The fire devoured thousands of green plants after it spread over acres of forest by the evening.

Sources said, locals of Balukhand spotted a wildfire in the nearby Balukhand wildlife sanctuary and informed the forest officials.

Being alerted by the forest officials, the firefighter team rushed to the spot and tried to douse the forest fire. However, it was in vain due to the plenty of dry leaves in the forest.

The reason behind the wildfire is yet to be ascertained. Fire-brigades and forest officials are in a continuous effort so far, to take the wildfire under control, said a forest official.