Pune: To protect the rich biodiversity of the Ghorawadeshwar hills, the Nisarg Mitra (Nature Friends) division of the Swatantryaveer Savarkar Mandal in Nigdi, in collaboration with the forest department, has announced increased patrolling on December 31 to prevent wildfires and accidents.

For the past 15 years, the Nature Friends division has planted and nurtured thousands of trees on the hills, with some now reaching heights of 20 feet and attracting a variety of wildlife, including birds, small animals, and reptiles. This thriving ecosystem faces a significant threat during year-end celebrations, as many individuals gather along roadsides for alcohol parties and light fires, often resulting in wildfires and accidents.

"To prevent such incidents, we will deploy more personnel for patrolling this year," said Bhaskar Rikame, working president of the Nature Friends division. He emphasized that wildfires pose a severe risk to the area's natural habitat and can endanger human lives.

The forest department has also warned that hosting parties on forest land, carrying flammable substances, or entering the area without proper permission are punishable offenses. Violators caught engaging in such activities will face legal action, including arrest.

The Nature Friends division has appealed to the public to celebrate responsibly and avoid activities that harm the environment. “Fires, whether natural or man-made, can devastate the biodiversity we have worked hard to cultivate and protect over the years,” Rikame added.