After a major fire broke out near Aarey Colony earlier this month, locals allege there have been further attempts to burn down the forest by anti-social elements. Residents and environment lovers are voicing their concern as they believe the rich biodiversity in the area is under threat from those with vested interests.

Aarey locals, who did not wish to be named, told mid-day that in last two weeks there has been an increase in forest fires. "We have been witnessing this post the massive blaze that had broken out on a private plot in Aarey. The Aarey CEO office has a security department and an officer, and the need of the hour is for them to increase the patrolling in the area and take strict action against those responsible for this," said a local. The areas that have been torched include the plot near New Zealand hostel, Aarey BMC school and Unit No. 18.