Bengaluru Man Arrested for Allegedly Setting Fire to Roadside Flower Plantation
A 25-year-old man has been arrested in Bengaluru for allegedly setting fire to a newly developed roadside flower plantation along NICE Road, causing an estimated damage of Rs 1.5 lakh. The incident, which has raised concerns about public property vandalism, occurred late at night on February 26 near Kinko Junction on the Hosakerehalli Toll Road.
Details of the Incident and Arrest
According to a complaint filed by Shivanna M, a field security officer with NICE Ltd, the fire broke out between 11.45pm and 11.55pm. While patrolling the area, Shivanna and his coworkers noticed flames engulfing the flowerbeds on both sides of the road. They spotted a man near the plantation who reportedly tried to flee, but the team surrounded him and questioned his identity.
Using water from a tanker, the security personnel managed to extinguish the fire, though the accused escaped while being taken to the police station. Byatarayanapura police later arrested Harish, a resident of Ganapathi Nagar in Banashankari, who was subsequently released on bail.
Background on the Development Project
NICE Ltd had recently carried out a significant development project from Kinko Junction to Hosakerehalli, planting flower saplings along both sides of the road to enhance the area's aesthetics. To ensure proper growth and nourishment, coconut fibre was laid at the base and covered with protective mats. Security guards regularly patrolled the area to safeguard the plantation, highlighting the company's investment in urban beautification.
Accused's Statement and Police Investigation
During questioning, Harish claimed that he had been smoking near NICE Road and accidentally ignited the coconut fibre, leading to the fire. Police officials noted that he has no prior criminal record, which may factor into the ongoing investigation. The case has been registered, and authorities are examining the circumstances to determine if the act was intentional or truly accidental.
This incident underscores the challenges faced in maintaining public infrastructure projects in urban areas, with vandalism posing a threat to community development efforts. The damage estimate of Rs 1.5 lakh reflects not only the cost of the plants and materials but also the labor and resources invested in the project.
