A massive fire broke out in the Ecological Park located in Laharpur late on Friday night, burning hundreds of plants and causing significant environmental damage. The blaze continued until Saturday morning before being brought under control by the fire brigade following alerts from local residents.
The Ecological Park, spread across 1,500 hectares and maintained by the Forest Department, is a popular destination where thousands of residents visit daily for morning and evening walks. The lush greenery and natural surroundings of the park attract a large number of people seeking a peaceful retreat. However, the recent fire has caused extensive damage to the park’s ecosystem.
The fire was reported around 1 AM when nearby residents noticed the flames. Concerned citizens immediately informed the fire control room, prompting a quick response. Firefighters from the nearest fire station reached the scene and worked tirelessly for three hours to extinguish the flames. Despite their efforts, a large section of the park was scorched, with hundreds of small plants reduced to ashes.
Eyewitnesses alleged that poor maintenance and garbage accumulation across the park were the primary causes of the fire. Unattended waste scattered throughout the park caught fire and allowed the blaze to spread rapidly. Residents expressed frustration over the lack of attention from the Municipal Corporation and the Forest Department, claiming that despite repeated incidents of fire, no concrete measures have been taken to prevent them.
A local resident and eyewitness stated, “Garbage is spread all over the park. Neither the Municipal Corporation nor the Forest Department is taking responsibility. This negligence caused the fire, and the garbage continues to smolder in various areas.”
This is not the first time a fire has broken out in the Ecological Park. Residents pointed out that annual fire incidents occur due to stubble burning or garbage accumulation, yet authorities remain indifferent. Despite repeated complaints, forest officials and municipal authorities have failed to implement preventive measures or ensure regular waste clearance.
A social worker involved in the matter reported that discussions have been held with DFO Lokpriya Bharti and Additional Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation Devendra Singh Chauhan. He added, “We have requested the authorities to take immediate action to prevent further damage and ensure proper maintenance of the park.”
Even after the fire was contained, smoldering patches were visible on Saturday morning, posing a continued risk of re-ignition. The garbage accumulated in various parts of the park remains a significant concern for residents.
The Ecological Park is connected to several residential areas, including Bagh Mugalia Extension, Katara Hills, Laharpur, Asaram Nagar, Global Park City, Amaltas Apartments, Ramayan City, Vivekanand Complex, and Gaurishankar Kaushal Campus. Residents of these localities fear that unless preventive measures are enforced, the recurring fires will pose a threat to both the environment and public safety.
