Ahead of International Day of Forests on March 21, environmental activists and nature lovers have raised concerns over recurring fires on Kharghar Hills, which span approximately 500 hectare.

The activists have demanded strict patrolling to prevent such incidents, which have harmful effects on the flora and fauna.

Activists’ claim that the fires, which occur almost every summer, are not due to extreme weather conditions but are instead deliberately set, allegedly for land grabbing. "Kharghar’s climate is moderate due to its rich wetlands, grasslands, mangroves, and forest cover. The fires are clearly not natural but intentional," said Jyoti Nadkarni, an environmentalist.

Nadkarni, who has been actively planting and maintaining trees on Kharghar Hill, emphasized the devastating effects of forest fires. "Such fires destroy precious flora and fauna, deplete vegetation unique to the area, degrade soil quality, and reduce its moisture-holding capacity," she explained.

She further highlighted that Sector 35, the surrounding hills, and nearby grasslands—being easily accessible—are particularly vulnerable and require immediate surveillance.

"We need vigilance from administrative bodies like CIDCO, the police, and the Panvel Municipal Corporation. Regular grass-cutting should be carried out to prevent such disasters," said Dharmendra Kar, an activist who has led extensive plantation efforts in Kharghar.

Kar further stressed that forest fires can only be prevented through proper planning, the creation of fire lines, planting fire-resistant trees, regular removal of dry grass, and increasing public awareness.