Forests set to fire : Maharashtra

[Paramvir Singh]

Every year, in the dry months, entire forested hills are set on fire in Maharashtra. I ahem always wondered why? Perhaps to ensure no thick forests survive so selling them for real estate is easier? In a recent trip near Lake Khadagvasala (near Pune), I photographed burning forests. As I sat in a chai tapri, a young man came a set an entire bamboo plant ablaze. When I protested, he said they have been doing it forever.

We need long term sustained education for these people. Not only do these incidents produce poisonous pollution, but also kill bio-diversity. Many small mammals and birds live in the thicket, large trees are charred beyond repair etc. This practice must be stopped.

[Paramvir Singh]

Here are some more pictures. Shot on my iPhone.

[Mrudul Godbole]

So they are burning the trees just because they are doing it forever? They might be doing it to clear the land for agriculture? Really a sad situation . Thanks for sharing.

[Paramvir Singh]

Agriculture, it seems in these cases, is just an excuse to encroach on the land.

[Roshni Patel]

Absolutely Agreed, the practice should be stopped.
Thanks for such an informative share.