Fri Mar 21 14:20:17 UTC 2025: ## Bengaluru Residents Prevent Wildfires, Provide Water for Turahalli Forest Wildlife
**Bengaluru, March 21, 2025** – A dedicated group of volunteers, “Clean Up Turahalli (CUT)”, is working tirelessly to protect the Turahalli forest on the outskirts of Bengaluru from wildfires and ensure the survival of its wildlife during the summer months. The 590-acre forest, a vital green space in South Bengaluru, is home to approximately 113 species of animals and birds.
Facing the recurring threat of wildfires, often caused by human activity, CUT, in collaboration with the Forest Department, has implemented a multi-pronged approach. This includes clearing fire-prone weeds and establishing a vigilant team of over 100 members who monitor the forest and immediately alert authorities to any fire outbreaks. A dedicated firefighting team is also on standby to assist the Forest Department.
Addressing the scarcity of water, CUT has installed and regularly refills cement water rings throughout the forest, providing a crucial water source for the animals and preventing them from venturing into residential areas in search of hydration. These efforts are supplemented by regular water deliveries using tankers.
Sowmya Kashyap, a CUT member, explained that the initiative began with simple clean-up efforts, addressing the accumulation of garbage and plastic within the forest. The group has since expanded its activities to include tree sapling planting, seed ball making, educational workshops for local children, and ongoing collaboration with forest officials and police to prevent illegal activities such as tree cutting and unauthorized gatherings within the forest. Funding for these initiatives was raised through the collection and recycling of old newspapers from nearby apartment complexes. The group’s proactive approach has significantly curbed illegal activities in the area.
First Piper 