India, Dec. 28 -- Ahead of New Year celebrations, the Pune forest department, in coordination with the police, will intensify vigilance across hill areas in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad to prevent untoward incidents and protect forest ecosystems.

The move comes in the wake of recurring instances from previous years where groups of people have celebrated New Year's Eve on hilltops and forested areas with loud music, alcohol consumption, smoking, and bonfires. Such activities pose a serious threat to wildlife and significantly increase the risk of forest fires, especially during the winter, said officials.

Mahadev Mohite, deputy conservator of forests, Pune division, said that the risk of forest fires has increased this year due to dense gra...