50 acres of University of Hyderabad on fire

Hyderabad: A major fire broke out in the grounds of the University of Hyderabad and spread across more than 50 acres towards the Mushroom Rock area of the campus. The cause of the fire is not yet known. It is suspected that several wild animals may have died in the fire.

For four hours, 25 student volunteers, security men and two fire engines worked to douse the fire. Students and security staff could be seen using large twigs to cut off the fire on the ground which was spreading through the dry grass. The University has three helipads and the grassy area surrounding the helipads was burnt down.

According to the students the fire spread across more than 100 acres. One of the student volunteers, J Karthik said, “Security guards saw the fire and soon students joined in to help them. The fire’s spread was very large, more than 100 acres. The area to one side of Mushroom Rock was burnt down.”

Some students said this is usual during the summer months when the grass is dry and catches fire easily.  “Every year at least seven major fires occur in the University of Hyderabad campus for various reasons. The University is losing a lot of precious biodiversity. Last time we saw snakes and other wildlife charred to death in a fire. I really don't understand why it is so difficult to procure a fire safety vehicle. Why is it difficult to give ` 30-40 lakh for internal safety? The fires sometimes also affect residential areas, construction sites and labs,” said Dr Ravi Jillapalli, wildlife activist.