Controlled forest fires at Turahalli forest to curb anti-social elements

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: The Turlahalli forest witnessed a forest fire in the afternoon on Friday, lit by officials. Forest officials alongside contractors lit the controlled forest fire in the forest area and surrounding places as many drug abuse and illegal forest land encroachment issues were on the rise. In order to control criminal operations, the authorities decided to practice controlled forest fires which can aid in reducing blind spots and help in the generation of flora and fauna.

The Turhalli forest has a very diverse flora and fauna. In the midst of human intervention, the forest produces fresh varieties of fruits and vegetables for the common people. However, the forest is being harmed with human settlements and development activities; it has become a hub for drug abusers and alcoholics, with syringes, broken beer bottles found in the forest.

“The settlements have become a nuisance for the wildlife, people resort to dumping garbage in the forests, we have fined so many societies and individual homes but there is no end to this behaviour, ” informed the deputy range officer and surveyor of the forest department , Raju A L.  

“Many have encroached upon forest lands and built tankers, pillars and even one story homes. Most of them have no documentation for their actions, to which we are constantly on a roll to put a stop to. Forest land is strictly for the wildlife that resides here,” he added.

Expressing disappointment for human behaviour, he also stated that many people have become a reason for forest fires, as many tend to stub their cigarette buts, have bonfire parties with bare minimum caution.

 A team of rescuers from the PFA wildlife veterinary hospital were present at the scene to take care of any animal for their treatment. Raju assured that this common practise helps in the regeneration of plants and promotes healthy growth. During the process of the controlled forest fires, the fire department was alerted.

Raju is going to make regular checks in the area for the next week; he will also address the issues of the residents, he informed. (Kindly choose an appropriate picture) This is Turlahalli forest from kendriya Nagar