Forest fires, typically associated with the scorching summer months, have made an early appearance in Pune this year, with incidents reported as early as January. The Forest Survey of India data revealed over 500 instances of forest fires across different locations in Maharashtra between February 1 and 17, causing concerns among environmentalists and authorities.
Tekdi walkers and volunteers, actively involved in the cleaning and maintenance of tekdis (hills), have noted a significant spike in the number of fire incidents. The Forest Survey of India data underscores the severity of the situation, pointing towards a potential ecological impact.
Experts attribute the early onset of forest fires to unseasonably high day temperatures in February and an extended period of dry weather. Favorable conditions, such as high atmospheric temperatures and low humidity, create an environment conducive to the ignition and spread of fires. Manmade causes, including lit cigarettes, bidi, electric sparks, or any ignition source contacting inflammable material, can quickly lead to blazes.
Volunteers, such as Deepak Shrote from Vasundhara Swachata Abhiyan, have reported incidents of fires in areas like Pashan hill and the forest region adjoining Sus village. Shrote emphasized the need for authorities to be adequately equipped and possess proper infrastructure to respond to such emergencies, highlighting a serious issue in the current scenario.
Himanshu Kulkarni, actively involved in the upkeep of Vetal Tekdi, highlighted the changing pattern of fire seasons, starting early due to hot days in the winter season. He noted that fires have been occurring as early as November or December, with dry grass becoming highly susceptible to spontaneous combustion or manmade blazes.
Atul Wagh from Green Hills Group reported instances of fire on Chatushrungi Tekdi in February, despite precautionary measures taken by creating fire lines to prevent the spread. Sanjay Parodkar from Life Tree Nature Foundation mentioned a recent fire in a tekdi in Narhe, reinforcing the concerns over the ecological impact of these incidents.
Forest fires not only pose a direct threat to biodiversity but also disrupt habitats and food sources for various species. The destruction of these habitats can lead to imbalances in predator-prey relationships and have cascading effects throughout the food chain.
