Yogesh K Porwar
*CM directs resolution of minor technical issues with the Mekedatu project.
Chief Minister D K Shivakumar today instructed officials to resume safari and eco-tourism activities in Bandipur and Nagarahole national parks with necessary safety measures.
He instructed officials to restart the safari during a meeting of the Standing Committee of Karnataka State Wildlife Board at Vidhana Soudha.The CM is the Chairman of the Wildlife Board.
According to information provided by officials at the meeting,the density of tigers and leopards in the eco-tourism and safari areas of Bandipur and Nagarahole is higher than in areas with high human–wildlife conflict.
In this context,the Chief Minister directed that safari activities be started by strictly following the necessary precautionary and safety measures so that there is no compromise to the safety of tourists.
At the meeting,officials explained that the construction of the BMIC corridor has obstructed the traditional movement routes of elephants,tigers,and leopards.
As a result,the meeting was informed that wildlife is moving out of forest areas toward the Channapatna and Ramanagara regions,and that this is also a major cause of the increase in human–wildlife conflict.
According to officials,when permission was granted for the construction of the Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway, a condition was imposed to build the necessary underpasses,overpasses,and wildlife corridors for the safe movement of wildlife.
However,officials brought to the meeting’s attention that these conditions were not properly followed during the road construction.
At the meeting,standing committee members brought to the Chief Minister’s attention that,although clear instructions had already been given regarding the removal of dried-up and dangerously placed trees and branches within the GBA limits,tree falls are reported due to the lack of effective implementation.
Responding to this,the Chief Minister directed the officials concerned to give priority to public safety and urgently take measures to identify,remove,and prevent the danger posed by hazardous trees and branches.
*Mekedatu project:
He also noted that Tamil Nadu is attempting to raise objections in the Supreme Court over the Mekedatu project by putting forward minor pretexts.
The CM directed that officials examine whether such minor technical issues exist and resolve them effectively.
