Coastal Karnataka's Kasturirangan Report: Minister Reddy Pledges Ground-Level Survey Within a Year
Mangaluru: Forest and Environment Minister Ramalinga Reddy announced on Sunday that a comprehensive physical survey regarding the Kasturirangan report will be conducted within a year, with findings then submitted to the central government. Addressing a press conference at Pilikula Nisargadhama in the city following his visit to the coastal region, Minister Reddy outlined the state's renewed strategy.
The Karnataka government has previously rejected the Kasturirangan report six times. Now, for the seventh instance, it has sought permission from the Centre to undertake a ground-level survey. This initiative aims to present a realistic assessment of the situation within the stipulated one-year timeframe. Minister Reddy confirmed that instructions have already been issued for the formation of district-level committees to commence this crucial work.
In addition to the Kasturirangan report, Minister Reddy disclosed that the state government has already forwarded a proposal to the Centre, advocating for the simplification of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) regulations. He further detailed a work plan for Karnataka's coastal belt, involving four departments. This plan will prioritise tourism, fisheries, the conservation of mangrove forests, the protection of endangered biodiversity, and robust measures to prevent pollution, particularly the entry of plastic waste into the sea.
Other key decisions shared by the Minister included the transfer of Pilikula Zoo's management to the State Zoo Authority. He also provided an update on the proposed elephant camp in Sullia, stating that a survey had concluded the identified location was unsuitable. Former MLA J.R. Lobo, Forest Conservator Kamala Karikalan, Deputy Forest Conservator Ravishankar, Karnataka Cashew Development Corporation Managing Director Dr. V. Karikalan, and Pilikula Abhayaranya Authority Commissioner Dr. Arun Shetty were among those present at the press conference.
Image: varthabharati.in
📰 Source: Vartha Bharati DK
