Massive fire erupts on Dindoshi Hill near SGNP, activists demand probe | VIDEO

A massive fire broke out on Dindoshi Hills, opposite Infinity IT Park in Goregaon East, during the early hours of Sunday, engulfing approximately 1.5 km of eco-sensitive land. The blaze, reported at 12:14 am, consumed herbs, shrubs, and trees, but no injuries were reported. Firefighters extinguished the flames by midnight, yet the incident has drawn sharp criticism from environmentalists due to its location adjacent to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP).

Allegations of deliberate ignition

Stalin D, Director of NGO Vanshakti, alleged that the fire was intentionally set to clear vegetation for future commercial use. “This is not a natural occurrence but a deliberate act,” he stated in his email to the Maharashtra Forest Department, Ministry of Environment, and other authorities. Stalin cited previous fires in the area, including one in October 2022, claiming private developers are responsible for repeated environmental violations. He identified entities like Ferrani Hotels, DB Realty, and the Nusli Wadia Trust as those tasked with protecting the hill range.

@MahaForest @mybmc @mpcb_official @moefcc massive fire seen on Dindoshi hills . This doesn't seem to be natural or accidental. This is being done to kill the vegetation on the hills. Fire will spread to notified areas of SGNP( national park). Arrest the criminals who did this. pic.twitter.com/Rwgn3d8yjs

— Stalin (@GreenStalin) December 28, 2024

Stalin called for an in-depth investigation, highlighting that similar incidents of tree felling and fires have been documented, with FIRs filed against unknown perpetrators. He urged officials to involve environmental experts in inspecting the site to determine the cause and prevent further degradation.

Preliminary findings by authorities

A Mumbai Fire Brigade officer confirmed that the fire was confined to shrubs and multiple sections, possibly spreading due to strong winds. While no individuals were seen on-site before the incident, the officer noted that manual ignition could not be ruled out. Due to uneven terrain, fire engines couldn’t reach the affected areas, and firefighters had to extinguish the flames manually.

Separate incident at Heera Panna shopping centre

On the same day, a minor fire erupted at Heera Panna Shopping Centre in Haji Ali. Two closed shops were affected, with damage to electric wirings, furniture, and stock items. Four fire engines and three jumbo tankers managed to control the blaze by 12:52 pm, with no injuries reported.