India, Dec. 5 -- Forest workers in Dindori are marking thousands of sal trees damaged by an aggressive borer infestation.

Local assessments suggest the number of affected trees could reach 100,000 - far higher than official estimates.

Scientists report that 30-35% of sal trees in parts of the district may already be infested.

Villagers warn the sal canopy is fading fast, raising temperatures and threatening local ecosystems.

Heavy rainfall and increased humidity may have accelerated the pest's spread, researchers say.

It is four in the afternoon in Sontirath village, in Madhya Pradesh's Dindori district. The village forest is bustling with activity. Suddenly, the sound of axes echoes through the trees. For a moment, it appears that t...