Forest Fire on Belapur Hills Spurs Calls for Environmental Protection and Investigation

A major forest fire erupted on Belapur Hills in Navi Mumbai, raising concerns among residents and environmental activists about recurring fires and environmental damage. Activists allege that development activities, illegal encroachments, and hill cutting have degraded the ecosystem. They have urged the Maharashtra government to transfer ownership of key hill ranges, including Belapur, Parsik, and Kharghar Hills, from local authorities to the Forest Department for better protection and have called for a high-level probe into the fire's cause.