Burn spots along Bukit Gasing startles joggers

PETALING JAYA: Joggers today were caught by surprise when they found several spots along their running trail burned due to a forest fire at Bukit Gasing Forest Park.
Bukit Gasing assemblyman Rajiv Rishyakaran told theSun he will call on the relevant authorities to initiate action, including having regularly patrolling at the forest park which borders Selangor and Kuala Lumpur to avert any untoward incidences.
"I will call the Petaling Jaya city council (MBPJ) to conduct patrolling in the area. The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) should also do the same for the joggers' safety," he said.
Rajiv said he is not sure whether the fire was started by human negligence or due to the hot weather condition.
"If it is caused by humans, it's a great shame that people will do such a thing. If it's natural, it happens," he added.
When contacted, Selangor Fire and Rescue Department assistant director (operations) Mohd Sani Harul said forest fire normally occurs due human negligence such as throwing lit cigarette butts.
"I don't think its caused by the heatwave," he added.
Meanwhile, a jogger who wished to be identified as Yip said he noticed the burned spots two weeks ago.
"I have jogged here for 15 years and this is not the first time I have encountered such situations," he said
"I'm not sure what is the cause of the burning spots. It might be due to the heat," he added.