Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Friday assured residents and representatives in Hebri, Udupi district, that the Karnataka government would thoroughly discuss demands for a physical survey of areas proposed under the Kasturirangan report. He committed to considering public concerns before conveying the state's decision to the Centre by September 27.
The Chief Minister addressed a meeting where local communities voiced their apprehensions regarding the Kasturirangan Committee's recommendations. The committee had suggested designating 37 percent of the Western Ghats, an expansive 60,000 square kilometers across six states—Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu—as an Eco-Sensitive Area.
Shivakumar acknowledged the urgency, stating, 'We have to send our decision to the Centre by September 27. We have come here to hear your views and understand the problems you are facing.' He confirmed that suggestions for an expert committee and a physical survey, mirroring the Kerala model, would be considered. The issue will also feature prominently during a three-day special Assembly session convened to address farmer issues, drought, and the report, with discussions on the Kasturirangan report scheduled for the session's inaugural day.
Representatives at the meeting strongly advocated for a ground-level survey before finalising the regions falling under the Kasturirangan recommendations. They highlighted that the original report relied on satellite and GPS mapping, omitting a crucial physical assessment. Their primary concern revolved around the inclusion of populated areas within the proposed Eco-Sensitive Zone.
Drawing parallels with Kerala, representatives pointed out that the neighbouring state conducted a physical survey through a high-level committee, effectively distinguishing inhabited areas from forest lands. This approach significantly reduced the area covered by the recommendations in Kerala, from approximately 13,000 sq km. They argued that a similar exercise in Karnataka, which currently has nearly 20,000 sq km under consideration, could potentially exclude around 5,000 sq km of populated zones.
Beyond the environmental report, Shivakumar also touched upon the Forest Rights Act. He mentioned the government's intent to consider a uniform 25-year limit for beneficiaries, replacing the existing varying limits of 25 and 75 years. He assured attendees that forest officials had received instructions not to harass individuals residing in forest areas, reiterating the government's commitment to 'Bagair Hukum cultivation and giving land to those who cultivate it.'
Addressing local demands, the Chief Minister pledged to discuss proposals for a zonal management plan and a taluk hospital at Hebri with officials. He emphasized his government's policy of making implementable announcements, saying, 'We do not do politics on emotions. We are concerned about your lives.' Shivakumar also announced upcoming visits to Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, and Udupi to gather further public and elected representative feedback.
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📰 Source: Sahil Online