Campaign to Save Chamundi Hills and Lakes

Pl click view whole petition to view photos-Update:Wed,Aug06,2008 21:30
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/chamundi/
FILE Photo: M.A. Sriram The Hindu Wed, Aug 06, 2008

In focus: A view of the Chamundi Hills in Mysore.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/08/06/stories/2008080657380300.htm

Ropeway: NOC sought without filing EIA report :The Hindu Wednesday, Aug 06, 2008

Confusion continues over status of project at Chamundi Hills

Environment impact assessment report should be prepared by an independent agency: NGOs

There is widespread opposition to the project

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/23/stories/2008072350320200.htm

'Protect lake, don't develop it' : The Hindu Wednesday, Jul 23, 2008

PHOTO:M.A. SRIRAM The Hindu Wednesday, Jul 23, 2008

Needs care: A view of the Kukkarahalli Lake in Mysore. -

The main question is why cannot the Kukkarahalli Lake and the Chamundi Hills be protected instead of being developed?

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/11/stories/2008071157850300.htm

Create green belt on Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Friday, July 11, 2008

Government is planning to take up works at a cost of Rs. 50 crore

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/10/stories/2008071051790300.htm

Greens favour ecological approach to development of Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Thursday, July 10, 2008

Ecology and protec-tion of the hills will be compromised in the quest for development

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/09/stories/2008070954700600.htm

Rs. 50 crore for Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Wedneday, July 09, 2008

The Government will notify the area to protect prime land

FILE Photo: M.A. Sriram The Hindu Wedneday, July 09, 2008

POISED FOR DEVELOPMENT: An aerial view of the Chamundi Hills in Mysore. (VIEW PHOTO)

http://www.thehindu.com/2008/06/29/stories/2008062952180300.htm

Chamundi Hills to be developed into a major pilgrim centre: The Hindu Sunday, June 29, 2008

Government approves Rs. 13.2 crore for its development under JNNURM

Single-window agency to be formed to streamline development

Decision on the controversial ropeway project to be taken after consulting various stakeholders

PHOTO: M.A. SRIRAM The Hindu Sunday, June 29, 2008


Major project: Work on developing Chamundi Hills and the Chamundeshwari Temple likely to begin soon.

http://www.deccanherald.com/content/May242008/state2008052369636.asp

India's smallest cat spotted atop Chamundi hills: Deccan Herald Saturday, May 24, 2008 » State

The smallest cat found in the country, the 'Rusty Spotted Cat' was spotted sitting in couched position on the wall by the road leading towards Uttanahalli from Nandi statue on Chamundi hills...

http://www.deccanherald.com/CONTENT/May22008/realty2008050165743.asp

Destination for all reasons: Deccan Herald Friday, May 2, 2008 » DH Realty

Two years back, a Rs 312 crore-package was announced for putting the growth of Mysore on a fast track. Then, when Karnataka Tourism started projecting Mysore as a destination town, the city started flourishing as a centre for medical tourism as well, explains Bindu Gopal Rao.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/Bangalore/Plan_to_blend_tourism_with_culture/articleshow/2653707.cms

Plan to blend tourism with culture: The Times of India 27 December 2007, 01:44 hrs IST, Ashwini Y S, TNN (Times News Network)

http://www.thehindu.com/2007/12/18/stories/2007121857560300.htm

Urbanisation taking its toll on ecosystem: The Hindu Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Development pressure is becoming visible in the surroundings of Chamundi Hills
Nothing has been done to ensure the conservation of the hills

http://www.thehindu.com/2007/05/31/stories/2007053112880300.htm

Residents protest against ropeway project: (PHOTO) The Hindu Thursday, May 31, 2007



RAISING VOICES: Residents of Gourishankar Nagar and Datta Nagar led by M.K. Somashekar, MLA, protesting against the alleged encroachment of land by SIKKA Interplant System, which was assigned the project to construct a ropeway at Chamundi Hills, in Mysore on Wednesday. PHOTO: M.A. SRIRAM

http://www.thehindu.com/2007/05/31/stories/2007053111200300.htm

Protest against ropeway, land grabbing and threat to ecosystem at Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Thursday, May 31, 2007

They allege encroachment of land by the agency assigned the task

Attempts being made to grab the land, alleges MLA

Concern voiced over threat to ecosystem due to project

http://www.hinduonnet.com/2006/06/16/stories/2006061610560300.htm

Experts for shelving ropeway project: The Hindu Friday, June 16, 2006

The Chamundi Hills has a good road network: MGP

http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/22/stories/2006052207830300.htm

Frequent landslips at Chamundi Hills point to fragility of the eco-system: The Hindu Monday, May 22, 2006

Loss of green cover leading to soil erosion: environmentalists

Demands

Conduct environment impact assessment before clearing the ropeway project

Declare at least 300 metres around the hills as `core conservation area'



FRAGILE EARTH: Heavy rain caused a landslip at Chamundi Hills on Friday. Photo: M.A. Sriram The Hindu Monday, May 22, 2006

http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/13/stories/2006051319730300.htm

Buffer zone sought around Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Saturday, May 13, 2006

PHOTO: The Hindu Saturday, May 13, 2006


`Save Chamundi Betta' aims at preserving the ecosystem of the region

Objectives
Protection of flora and fauna on the hills
Introduction of solid waste management
Promotion of eco-tourism, research
Educating villagers on the need for conservation

http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/11/stories/2006051108880300.htm

NGOs make out a case against ropeway project: The Hindu Thursday, May 11, 2006

http://www.hindu.com/2006/05/10/stories/2006051000720200.htm

`Save Chamundi Hills' campaign gains momentum: The Hindu Wedesday, May 10, 2006

http://www.hindu.com/2006/04/23/stories/2006042312410300.htm

Garbage removed from Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Sunday, Apr 23, 2006

It was organised by the district administration as part of the World Earth Day celebrations



MAINTAINING CLEANLINESS: Government officials cleaning the Chamundi Hills area on Saturday as part of World Earth Day.(VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Sunday, Apr 23, 2006

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1276524.cms

Amitabh to lure tourists to Mysore : The Times of India 27 Oct 2005, 0223 hrs IST, TNN

http://www.hindu.com/2005/09/23/stories/2005092314760300.htm

Support to save Chamundi Hills increasing in Mysore: The Hindu Fri, Sep 23, 2005



CRYING FOR ATTENTION: Unplanned development is threatening the very existence of the Chamundi Hills in Mysore. (VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Fri, Sep 23, 2005

http://www.hindu.com/2005/08/13/stories/2005081313040300.htm

Work on ropeway project put off: The Hindu Sat, Aug 13, 2005

http://www.hindu.com/2005/08/07/stories/2005080711460300.htm

Citizens want ropeway project at Chamundi Hills scrapped : The Hindu Sun, Aug 07, 2005



ROADBLOCK: The ropeway project at Chamundi Hills in Mysore has come under fire, as citizens say it will threaten the fragile ecosystem. (VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Sun, Aug 07, 2005

http://www.hindu.com/2005/07/22/stories/2005072213040300.htm

Ropeway at Chamundi Hills in 18 months: The Hindu Fri, Jul 22, 2005

http://www.hinduonnet.com/2005/03/06/stories/2005030609010300.htm

Ropeway to Chamundi Hills opposed :The Hindu Sun, Mar 06, 2005

http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/2004/12/22/stories/2004122212020300.htm

Forest fire in Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Wed, Dec 22, 2004



Forest fire engulfing the wooded area in Chamundi Hills in Mysore on Tuesday.(VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Wed, Dec 22, 2004

http://www.hinduonnet.com/2004/05/02/stories/2004050210290500.htm

Leopard kills calf near Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Sunday, May 02, 2004

It is suspected that the garbage dumping yard on the Mysore-Ooty Highway adjoining the Chamundi Hills was proving to be a happy hunting ground for leopards as the place was full of street dogs living off the garbage.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2004/01/29/stories/2004012901911900.htm
Plans to build ropeways to connect Nandi Hills, Chamundi Hills and Jog Falls: Business Line Thu, Jan 29, 2004

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2493514.cms

Task Force tells MUDA to disband plan to denotify land: The Times of India 01 Mar 2002, 2226 hrs IST, TNN (Times News Network)

http://www.indianexpress.com/res/web/pIe/ie/daily/19980921/26451574.html
A ropeway on the Chamundi Hills was also scheduled to be ready by next year (1999): INDIAN EXPRESS FRONT PAGE Monday, September 21, 1998

http://www.hindu.com/2008/08/06/stories/2008080657380300.htm

Ropeway: NOC sought without filing EIA report :The Hindu Wednesday, Aug 06, 2008

The conflicting views aired by the Karnataka Government on the proposed ropeway at Chamundi Hills and the difference of opinion among the local elected representatives on the subject have added to the confusion over the actual status of the vexed project.

The confusion has been confounded by the information provided by the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority that the project proponent has sought environmental clearance for the project but was yet to submit the environment impact assessment (EIA) report.

This means that the company, Sikka Interplant Systems Ltd., which has been awarded the work, is preparing the grounds to implement the ropeway project to which there is widespread opposition from a cross-section of society, including elected representatives.

The news about the company having filed for a no objection certificate (NOC) came to light when Syed Tanveeruddin, an activist of the Karanji and Siddarthanagar Tax Payers' Association, sought information pertaining to the project under the Right to Information Act.

Though the Department of Forests is yet to issue an NOC, according to the reply furnished by the authorities to Mr. Tanveeruddin, it is clear that the project has made sufficient progress by way of administrative clearance.

Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and environmentalists in the city now wonder if securing an NOC is a matter of formality to comply with the law as no public hearing or environmental impact assessment has been conducted at the project site.

The NGOs are peeved over the reply provided by the Authority which states that the "proponent has not submitted any environment impact assessment report".

The NGOs wonder if it is right for the Karnataka Government to depend on the EIA report to be filed by the company implementing the ropeway project.

"It is the duty of the Government to get an independent assessment done and not depend on the reports filed by the contractors who cannot be expected to be objective in their assessment of environmental damage. They will only refer to the possible negative impact in a cursory manner and fill the report with mitigatory measures they intend to take without highlighting the problems. This being the case, the Authority should get an independent view of the project impact," according to Mysore Amateur Naturalists (MAN), which is one of the NGOs opposed to the project.

Mr. Tanveeruddin pointed out that the company had not filed any application seeking consent for establishment under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 to the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) regarding construction of ropeway at Chamundi Hills.

Hence even the KSPCB's Mysore regional office had not issued any consent or an NOC to the firm, he said.

Environmentalists have cautioned that these are mere technical issues and the company may receive consent on completion of the formalities.

"Hence what is of importance is the need to get an EIA report done by an independent body of experts not attached to the project proponents and contractors," according to MAN.

The ropeway project has been opposed on the grounds that Chamundi Hills is a single hillock devoid of any steep gradient.

Apart from the erosion of green cover and destruction to the fragile ecosystem, the flora and fauna of Chamundi Hills can be severely impacted by the construction activity and suffer degradation, according to the NGOs.

The need of the hour is a buffer zone to prevent encroachment around Chamundi Hills and not a ropeway, according to the activists.

Chamundi Hills was an important watershed for nearly 10 tanks.

Development projects will cause a devastation to Chamundi Hills and the forests on the slopes that forms part of the green belt / cover of Mysore.

Concrete structures / buildings

Land adjoining the hills had been illegally encroached by institutions, in the name of religion, and land mafia.

Chamundi Hills should be saved from encroachment and the perils of unbridled urbanisation and unregulated / unplanned / reckless "development".

Environmental Effects and Economic Feasibility

There was no study of immediate and long-term environmental effects nor was there a reality check of the economic feasibility of such projects.

The planning authority may please prepare a feasibility report for the proposed projects and make it available to the public.

`Government has not made an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)'

Any project that entailed ecological damage should be preceded by an environmental impact assessment (EIA) by a competent and independent body and the law stipulated this.

It was only after such an assessment a project could be cleared if it was found to be negative for environmental damage.

A series of landslips due to loss of green cover was reported in 2005 and the road leading to Chamundi Hills had to be closed for traffic for some time.

The Hon'ble Supreme Court of India has given unambiguous directives to the State Governments on environment protection and conservation.
It seems like the Forest Department has not objected to the so-called development works including the proposed ropeway project.

The Forest Department received Rs. 49.45 million to take up conservation work as Chamundi Hills was stated to be "facing serious problems".

Now, it unfortunately seems like the same Forest Department has no qualms about supporting the ropeway and other infrastructure projects though it / they entail(s) destruction of vast tracts of forests.

The Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) has handed over land to M/S Sikka Traders to set up a base station for the ropeway. Night bazaars will be established at Bannimantap and recreation parks at Nishad Bagh (Kuppanna Park), the Kukkarahalli Lake and Dalvoy Lake.

The horizontal expansion of Mysore is taking its toll on the fragile ecosystem, and the vacant land facing the eastern ridge of Chamundi Hill has already been developed and will be allotted as sites to the public in due course.

Development pressure, which has been confined to the northern side and western side of Chamundi Hills, is now visible in the southern extremities.

The only conservation measure of some significance was the notification of 105 acres of land for a heritage park at the foot of Chamundi Hills, which is to be developed by the MUDA.

The horizontal sprawl of Mysore, which is expected to envelop the eastern ridge of Chamundi Hills, is likely to intensify once the doubling of Mysore-Bangalore railway line and the opening of the Mysore airport are completed.

The concept of development as envisaged by the authorities includes creation of guesthouses, parking lots and infrastructure even as there are talks of reviving the vexed ropeway project.

But there is hardly any talk of retaining the ecological integrity of the Chamundi Hills by declaring a buffer zone to prevent further encroachment on its fragile environment.

The popularity of the Chamundi Hills among pilgrims and tourists has increased over the years, and the number of visitors increased from a few lakhs to 70 lakh last year (2007).

Such a rush can only spell doom to the fragile ecology. But neither the Government nor the Forest Department has ordered a study in this regard.

But what is intriguing is that the Government has decided to declare the Chamundi Hills as a notified area for the purpose of expediting development, while a plea for a similar notification for protecting the ecological integrity of the hills fell on deaf ears.

With the introduction of Dasoha or free meals for pilgrims, the number of visitors is bound to increase, which calls for special measures to ensure that the fragile ecology did not wilt.

But the authorities have paid little importance to conservation of open spaces or declaring a 500-metre buffer zone around the Chamundi Hills.

As a result, many residential layouts have come up and even Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) has carved out over 10,000 sites along the eastern ridges of the Chamundi Hills.

This means, Mysore's growth, which was limited towards the western ridges all through centuries, will now be visible even along its eastern ridges.

The Government has relaxed land-use pattern, which is an open invitation to realtors and land sharks to step in.

Fenced Forestland for illegal grazing

The fence had been cut open at a few places to let the livestock in for illegal grazing. Illegal quarrying and making of bricks had further deteriorated the forest area outside the fence.

Trees are being cut down to bake bricks. Forest fires were another problem.

The landslip reported atop Chamundi Hills on Friday May 19, 2006 following heavy rain is a pointer to the fragility of the eco-system.

It also vindicates our opposition to the projects as Chamundi Hills was fragile and it could not withstand further ecological stress.

It also underlines the need to conduct an Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) to ascertain the feasibility of projects before they're cleared.

The forest area and green cover of Chamundi Hills had gradually been reduced to 25 sqkm in the absence of a "buffer zone" or "green belt".

We favour an ecological approach to development of Chamundi Hills and advocate / reiterate the imperatives of adopting an ecological approach to development.

Creation of a Buffer zone or green belt around Chamundi Hills

The buffer zone entails demarcating 500 metres around Chamundi Hills and notifying the land and banning all activities that threatens the ecology of the region due to change in land use pattern. This will regulate construction activity and prevent encroachment.

Core Conservation Area/Zone (300 metres)

To prevent encroachment and further erosion of green cover, at least 300 metres around the hills may please be declared "core conservation area/zone" where land can only be used for social forestry and conservation activity.

Peripheral Conservation Area/Zone PCA/PCZ (200 metres)

The remaining 200 metres may please be declared transitional or "peripheral conservation area" with emphasis on forestry, horticulture and agriculture.

Chamundi Hill Conservation Area (CHCA)

50 metres of land around a water body and its feeder channels may please be protected.

Preservation of the hill and its surroundings would recharge underground water, which could supply at least 25 per cent of the water requirement to a population of 16 lakh.

We also request the government to retrieve the encroached land and recruit more forest guards to check poaching and illegal grazing.

Pl click view whole petition to view photos-Update:Wed,Aug06,2008 21:30
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/chamundi/
FILE Photo: M.A. Sriram The Hindu Wed, Aug 06, 2008

In focus: A view of the Chamundi Hills in Mysore.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/08/06/stories/2008080657380300.htm

Ropeway: NOC sought without filing EIA report :The Hindu Wednesday, Aug 06, 2008

Confusion continues over status of project at Chamundi Hills

Environment impact assessment report should be prepared by an independent agency: NGOs

There is widespread opposition to the project

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/23/stories/2008072350320200.htm

'Protect lake, don't develop it' : The Hindu Wednesday, Jul 23, 2008

PHOTO:M.A. SRIRAM The Hindu Wednesday, Jul 23, 2008

Needs care: A view of the Kukkarahalli Lake in Mysore. -

The main question is why cannot the Kukkarahalli Lake and the Chamundi Hills be protected instead of being developed?

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/11/stories/2008071157850300.htm

Create green belt on Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Friday, July 11, 2008

Government is planning to take up works at a cost of Rs. 50 crore

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/10/stories/2008071051790300.htm

Greens favour ecological approach to development of Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Thursday, July 10, 2008

Ecology and protec-tion of the hills will be compromised in the quest for development

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/09/stories/2008070954700600.htm

Rs. 50 crore for Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Wedneday, July 09, 2008

The Government will notify the area to protect prime land

FILE Photo: M.A. Sriram The Hindu Wedneday, July 09, 2008

POISED FOR DEVELOPMENT: An aerial view of the Chamundi Hills in Mysore. (VIEW PHOTO)

http://www.thehindu.com/2008/06/29/stories/2008062952180300.htm

Chamundi Hills to be developed into a major pilgrim centre: The Hindu Sunday, June 29, 2008

Government approves Rs. 13.2 crore for its development under JNNURM

Single-window agency to be formed to streamline development

Decision on the controversial ropeway project to be taken after consulting various stakeholders

PHOTO: M.A. SRIRAM The Hindu Sunday, June 29, 2008


Major project: Work on developing Chamundi Hills and the Chamundeshwari Temple likely to begin soon.

http://www.deccanherald.com/content/May242008/state2008052369636.asp

India's smallest cat spotted atop Chamundi hills: Deccan Herald Saturday, May 24, 2008 » State

The smallest cat found in the country, the 'Rusty Spotted Cat' was spotted sitting in couched position on the wall by the road leading towards Uttanahalli from Nandi statue on Chamundi hills...

http://www.deccanherald.com/CONTENT/May22008/realty2008050165743.asp

Destination for all reasons: Deccan Herald Friday, May 2, 2008 » DH Realty

Two years back, a Rs 312 crore-package was announced for putting the growth of Mysore on a fast track. Then, when Karnataka Tourism started projecting Mysore as a destination town, the city started flourishing as a centre for medical tourism as well, explains Bindu Gopal Rao.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/Bangalore/Plan_to_blend_tourism_with_culture/articleshow/2653707.cms

Plan to blend tourism with culture: The Times of India 27 December 2007, 01:44 hrs IST, Ashwini Y S, TNN (Times News Network)

http://www.thehindu.com/2007/12/18/stories/2007121857560300.htm

Urbanisation taking its toll on ecosystem: The Hindu Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Development pressure is becoming visible in the surroundings of Chamundi Hills
Nothing has been done to ensure the conservation of the hills

http://www.thehindu.com/2007/05/31/stories/2007053112880300.htm

Residents protest against ropeway project: (PHOTO) The Hindu Thursday, May 31, 2007



RAISING VOICES: Residents of Gourishankar Nagar and Datta Nagar led by M.K. Somashekar, MLA, protesting against the alleged encroachment of land by SIKKA Interplant System, which was assigned the project to construct a ropeway at Chamundi Hills, in Mysore on Wednesday. PHOTO: M.A. SRIRAM

http://www.thehindu.com/2007/05/31/stories/2007053111200300.htm

Protest against ropeway, land grabbing and threat to ecosystem at Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Thursday, May 31, 2007

They allege encroachment of land by the agency assigned the task

Attempts being made to grab the land, alleges MLA

Concern voiced over threat to ecosystem due to project

http://www.hinduonnet.com/2006/06/16/stories/2006061610560300.htm

Experts for shelving ropeway project: The Hindu Friday, June 16, 2006

The Chamundi Hills has a good road network: MGP

http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/22/stories/2006052207830300.htm

Frequent landslips at Chamundi Hills point to fragility of the eco-system: The Hindu Monday, May 22, 2006

Loss of green cover leading to soil erosion: environmentalists

Demands

Conduct environment impact assessment before clearing the ropeway project

Declare at least 300 metres around the hills as `core conservation area'



FRAGILE EARTH: Heavy rain caused a landslip at Chamundi Hills on Friday. Photo: M.A. Sriram The Hindu Monday, May 22, 2006

http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/13/stories/2006051319730300.htm

Buffer zone sought around Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Saturday, May 13, 2006

PHOTO: The Hindu Saturday, May 13, 2006


`Save Chamundi Betta' aims at preserving the ecosystem of the region

Objectives
Protection of flora and fauna on the hills
Introduction of solid waste management
Promotion of eco-tourism, research
Educating villagers on the need for conservation

http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/11/stories/2006051108880300.htm

NGOs make out a case against ropeway project: The Hindu Thursday, May 11, 2006

http://www.hindu.com/2006/05/10/stories/2006051000720200.htm

`Save Chamundi Hills' campaign gains momentum: The Hindu Wedesday, May 10, 2006

http://www.hindu.com/2006/04/23/stories/2006042312410300.htm

Garbage removed from Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Sunday, Apr 23, 2006

It was organised by the district administration as part of the World Earth Day celebrations



MAINTAINING CLEANLINESS: Government officials cleaning the Chamundi Hills area on Saturday as part of World Earth Day.(VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Sunday, Apr 23, 2006

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1276524.cms

Amitabh to lure tourists to Mysore : The Times of India 27 Oct 2005, 0223 hrs IST, TNN

http://www.hindu.com/2005/09/23/stories/2005092314760300.htm

Support to save Chamundi Hills increasing in Mysore: The Hindu Fri, Sep 23, 2005



CRYING FOR ATTENTION: Unplanned development is threatening the very existence of the Chamundi Hills in Mysore. (VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Fri, Sep 23, 2005

http://www.hindu.com/2005/08/13/stories/2005081313040300.htm

Work on ropeway project put off: The Hindu Sat, Aug 13, 2005

http://www.hindu.com/2005/08/07/stories/2005080711460300.htm

Citizens want ropeway project at Chamundi Hills scrapped : The Hindu Sun, Aug 07, 2005



ROADBLOCK: The ropeway project at Chamundi Hills in Mysore has come under fire, as citizens say it will threaten the fragile ecosystem. (VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Sun, Aug 07, 2005

http://www.hindu.com/2005/07/22/stories/2005072213040300.htm

Ropeway at Chamundi Hills in 18 months: The Hindu Fri, Jul 22, 2005

http://www.hinduonnet.com/2005/03/06/stories/2005030609010300.htm

Ropeway to Chamundi Hills opposed :The Hindu Sun, Mar 06, 2005

http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/2004/12/22/stories/2004122212020300.htm

Forest fire in Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Wed, Dec 22, 2004



Forest fire engulfing the wooded area in Chamundi Hills in Mysore on Tuesday.(VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Wed, Dec 22, 2004

http://www.hinduonnet.com/2004/05/02/stories/2004050210290500.htm

Leopard kills calf near Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Sunday, May 02, 2004

It is suspected that the garbage dumping yard on the Mysore-Ooty Highway adjoining the Chamundi Hills was proving to be a happy hunting ground for leopards as the place was full of street dogs living off the garbage.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2004/01/29/stories/2004012901911900.htm
Plans to build ropeways to connect Nandi Hills, Chamundi Hills and Jog Falls: Business Line Thu, Jan 29, 2004

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2493514.cms

Task Force tells MUDA to disband plan to denotify land: The Times of India 01 Mar 2002, 2226 hrs IST, TNN (Times News Network)

http://www.indianexpress.com/res/web/pIe/ie/daily/19980921/26451574.html
A ropeway on the Chamundi Hills was also scheduled to be ready by next year (1999): INDIAN EXPRESS FRONT PAGE Monday, September 21, 1998

http://www.hindu.com/2008/08/06/stories/2008080657380300.htm

Ropeway: NOC sought without filing EIA report :The Hindu Wednesday, Aug 06, 2008

The conflicting views aired by the Karnataka Government on the proposed ropeway at Chamundi Hills and the difference of opinion among the local elected representatives on the subject have added to the confusion over the actual status of the vexed project.

The confusion has been confounded by the information provided by the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority that the project proponent has sought environmental clearance for the project but was yet to submit the environment impact assessment (EIA) report.

This means that the company, Sikka Interplant Systems Ltd., which has been awarded the work, is preparing the grounds to implement the ropeway project to which there is widespread opposition from a cross-section of society, including elected representatives.

The news about the company having filed for a no objection certificate (NOC) came to light when Syed Tanveeruddin, an activist of the Karanji and Siddarthanagar Tax Payers' Association, sought information pertaining to the project under the Right to Information Act.

Though the Department of Forests is yet to issue an NOC, according to the reply furnished by the authorities to Mr. Tanveeruddin, it is clear that the project has made sufficient progress by way of administrative clearance.

Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and environmentalists in the city now wonder if securing an NOC is a matter of formality to comply with the law as no public hearing or environmental impact assessment has been conducted at the project site.

The NGOs are peeved over the reply provided by the Authority which states that the "proponent has not submitted any environment impact assessment report".

The NGOs wonder if it is right for the Karnataka Government to depend on the EIA report to be filed by the company implementing the ropeway project.

"It is the duty of the Government to get an independent assessment done and not depend on the reports filed by the contractors who cannot be expected to be objective in their assessment of environmental damage. They will only refer to the possible negative impact in a cursory manner and fill the report with mitigatory measures they intend to take without highlighting the problems. This being the case, the Authority should get an independent view of the project impact," according to Mysore Amateur Naturalists (MAN), which is one of the NGOs opposed to the project.

Mr. Tanveeruddin pointed out that the company had not filed any application seeking consent for establishment under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 to the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) regarding construction of ropeway at Chamundi Hills.

Hence even the KSPCB's Mysore regional office had not issued any consent or an NOC to the firm, he said.

Environmentalists have cautioned that these are mere technical issues and the company may receive consent on completion of the formalities.

"Hence what is of importance is the need to get an EIA report done by an independent body of experts not attached to the project proponents and contractors," according to MAN.

The ropeway project has been opposed on the grounds that Chamundi Hills is a single hillock devoid of any steep gradient.

Apart from the erosion of green cover and destruction to the fragile ecosystem, the flora and fauna of Chamundi Hills can be severely impacted by the construction activity and suffer degradation, according to the NGOs.

The need of the hour is a buffer zone to prevent encroachment around Chamundi Hills and not a ropeway, according to the activists.

Chamundi Hills was an important watershed for nearly 10 tanks.

Development projects will cause a devastation to Chamundi Hills and the forests on the slopes that forms part of the green belt / cover of Mysore.

Concrete structures / buildings

Land adjoining the hills had been illegally encroached by institutions, in the name of religion, and land mafia.

Chamundi Hills should be saved from encroachment and the perils of unbridled urbanisation and unregulated / unplanned / reckless "development".

Environmental Effects and Economic Feasibility

There was no study of immediate and long-term environmental effects nor was there a reality check of the economic feasibility of such projects.

The planning authority may please prepare a feasibility report for the proposed projects and make it available to the public.

`Government has not made an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)'

Any project that entailed ecological damage should be preceded by an environmental impact assessment (EIA) by a competent and independent body and the law stipulated this.

It was only after such an assessment a project could be cleared if it was found to be negative for environmental damage.

A series of landslips due to loss of green cover was reported in 2005 and the road leading to Chamundi Hills had to be closed for traffic for some time.

The Hon'ble Supreme Court of India has given unambiguous directives to the State Governments on environment protection and conservation.
It seems like the Forest Department has not objected to the so-called development works including the proposed ropeway project.

The Forest Department received Rs. 49.45 million to take up conservation work as Chamundi Hills was stated to be "facing serious problems".

Now, it unfortunately seems like the same Forest Department has no qualms about supporting the ropeway and other infrastructure projects though it / they entail(s) destruction of vast tracts of forests.

The Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) has handed over land to M/S Sikka Traders to set up a base station for the ropeway. Night bazaars will be established at Bannimantap and recreation parks at Nishad Bagh (Kuppanna Park), the Kukkarahalli Lake and Dalvoy Lake.

The horizontal expansion of Mysore is taking its toll on the fragile ecosystem, and the vacant land facing the eastern ridge of Chamundi Hill has already been developed and will be allotted as sites to the public in due course.

Development pressure, which has been confined to the northern side and western side of Chamundi Hills, is now visible in the southern extremities.

The only conservation measure of some significance was the notification of 105 acres of land for a heritage park at the foot of Chamundi Hills, which is to be developed by the MUDA.

The horizontal sprawl of Mysore, which is expected to envelop the eastern ridge of Chamundi Hills, is likely to intensify once the doubling of Mysore-Bangalore railway line and the opening of the Mysore airport are completed.

The concept of development as envisaged by the authorities includes creation of guesthouses, parking lots and infrastructure even as there are talks of reviving the vexed ropeway project.

But there is hardly any talk of retaining the ecological integrity of the Chamundi Hills by declaring a buffer zone to prevent further encroachment on its fragile environment.

The popularity of the Chamundi Hills among pilgrims and tourists has increased over the years, and the number of visitors increased from a few lakhs to 70 lakh last year (2007).

Such a rush can only spell doom to the fragile ecology. But neither the Government nor the Forest Department has ordered a study in this regard.

But what is intriguing is that the Government has decided to declare the Chamundi Hills as a notified area for the purpose of expediting development, while a plea for a similar notification for protecting the ecological integrity of the hills fell on deaf ears.

With the introduction of Dasoha or free meals for pilgrims, the number of visitors is bound to increase, which calls for special measures to ensure that the fragile ecology did not wilt.

But the authorities have paid little importance to conservation of open spaces or declaring a 500-metre buffer zone around the Chamundi Hills.

As a result, many residential layouts have come up and even Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) has carved out over 10,000 sites along the eastern ridges of the Chamundi Hills.

This means, Mysore's growth, which was limited towards the western ridges all through centuries, will now be visible even along its eastern ridges.

The Government has relaxed land-use pattern, which is an open invitation to realtors and land sharks to step in.

Fenced Forestland for illegal grazing

The fence had been cut open at a few places to let the livestock in for illegal grazing. Illegal quarrying and making of bricks had further deteriorated the forest area outside the fence.

Trees are being cut down to bake bricks. Forest fires were another problem.

The landslip reported atop Chamundi Hills on Friday May 19, 2006 following heavy rain is a pointer to the fragility of the eco-system.

It also vindicates our opposition to the projects as Chamundi Hills was fragile and it could not withstand further ecological stress.

It also underlines the need to conduct an Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) to ascertain the feasibility of projects before they're cleared.

The forest area and green cover of Chamundi Hills had gradually been reduced to 25 sqkm in the absence of a "buffer zone" or "green belt".

We favour an ecological approach to development of Chamundi Hills and advocate / reiterate the imperatives of adopting an ecological approach to development.

Creation of a Buffer zone or green belt around Chamundi Hills

The buffer zone entails demarcating 500 metres around Chamundi Hills and notifying the land and banning all activities that threatens the ecology of the region due to change in land use pattern. This will regulate construction activity and prevent encroachment.

Core Conservation Area/Zone (300 metres)

To prevent encroachment and further erosion of green cover, at least 300 metres around the hills may please be declared "core conservation area/zone" where land can only be used for social forestry and conservation activity.

Peripheral Conservation Area/Zone PCA/PCZ (200 metres)

The remaining 200 metres may please be declared transitional or "peripheral conservation area" with emphasis on forestry, horticulture and agriculture.

Chamundi Hill Conservation Area (CHCA)

50 metres of land around a water body and its feeder channels may please be protected.

Preservation of the hill and its surroundings would recharge underground water, which could supply at least 25 per cent of the water requirement to a population of 16 lakh.

We also request the government to retrieve the encroached land and recruit more forest guards to check poaching and illegal grazing.

Pl click view whole petition to view photos-Update:Wed,Aug06,2008 21:30
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/chamundi/
FILE Photo: M.A. Sriram The Hindu Wed, Aug 06, 2008

In focus: A view of the Chamundi Hills in Mysore.

http://www.hindu.com/2008/08/06/stories/2008080657380300.htm

Ropeway: NOC sought without filing EIA report :The Hindu Wednesday, Aug 06, 2008

Confusion continues over status of project at Chamundi Hills

Environment impact assessment report should be prepared by an independent agency: NGOs

There is widespread opposition to the project

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/23/stories/2008072350320200.htm

'Protect lake, don't develop it' : The Hindu Wednesday, Jul 23, 2008

PHOTO:M.A. SRIRAM The Hindu Wednesday, Jul 23, 2008

Needs care: A view of the Kukkarahalli Lake in Mysore. -

The main question is why cannot the Kukkarahalli Lake and the Chamundi Hills be protected instead of being developed?

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/11/stories/2008071157850300.htm

Create green belt on Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Friday, July 11, 2008

Government is planning to take up works at a cost of Rs. 50 crore

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/10/stories/2008071051790300.htm

Greens favour ecological approach to development of Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Thursday, July 10, 2008

Ecology and protec-tion of the hills will be compromised in the quest for development

http://www.hindu.com/2008/07/09/stories/2008070954700600.htm

Rs. 50 crore for Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Wedneday, July 09, 2008

The Government will notify the area to protect prime land

FILE Photo: M.A. Sriram The Hindu Wedneday, July 09, 2008

POISED FOR DEVELOPMENT: An aerial view of the Chamundi Hills in Mysore. (VIEW PHOTO)

http://www.thehindu.com/2008/06/29/stories/2008062952180300.htm

Chamundi Hills to be developed into a major pilgrim centre: The Hindu Sunday, June 29, 2008

Government approves Rs. 13.2 crore for its development under JNNURM

Single-window agency to be formed to streamline development

Decision on the controversial ropeway project to be taken after consulting various stakeholders

PHOTO: M.A. SRIRAM The Hindu Sunday, June 29, 2008


Major project: Work on developing Chamundi Hills and the Chamundeshwari Temple likely to begin soon.

http://www.deccanherald.com/content/May242008/state2008052369636.asp

India's smallest cat spotted atop Chamundi hills: Deccan Herald Saturday, May 24, 2008 » State

The smallest cat found in the country, the 'Rusty Spotted Cat' was spotted sitting in couched position on the wall by the road leading towards Uttanahalli from Nandi statue on Chamundi hills...

http://www.deccanherald.com/CONTENT/May22008/realty2008050165743.asp

Destination for all reasons: Deccan Herald Friday, May 2, 2008 » DH Realty

Two years back, a Rs 312 crore-package was announced for putting the growth of Mysore on a fast track. Then, when Karnataka Tourism started projecting Mysore as a destination town, the city started flourishing as a centre for medical tourism as well, explains Bindu Gopal Rao.

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/Bangalore/Plan_to_blend_tourism_with_culture/articleshow/2653707.cms

Plan to blend tourism with culture: The Times of India 27 December 2007, 01:44 hrs IST, Ashwini Y S, TNN (Times News Network)

http://www.thehindu.com/2007/12/18/stories/2007121857560300.htm

Urbanisation taking its toll on ecosystem: The Hindu Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Development pressure is becoming visible in the surroundings of Chamundi Hills
Nothing has been done to ensure the conservation of the hills

http://www.thehindu.com/2007/05/31/stories/2007053112880300.htm

Residents protest against ropeway project: (PHOTO) The Hindu Thursday, May 31, 2007



RAISING VOICES: Residents of Gourishankar Nagar and Datta Nagar led by M.K. Somashekar, MLA, protesting against the alleged encroachment of land by SIKKA Interplant System, which was assigned the project to construct a ropeway at Chamundi Hills, in Mysore on Wednesday. PHOTO: M.A. SRIRAM

http://www.thehindu.com/2007/05/31/stories/2007053111200300.htm

Protest against ropeway, land grabbing and threat to ecosystem at Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Thursday, May 31, 2007

They allege encroachment of land by the agency assigned the task

Attempts being made to grab the land, alleges MLA

Concern voiced over threat to ecosystem due to project

http://www.hinduonnet.com/2006/06/16/stories/2006061610560300.htm

Experts for shelving ropeway project: The Hindu Friday, June 16, 2006

The Chamundi Hills has a good road network: MGP

http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/22/stories/2006052207830300.htm

Frequent landslips at Chamundi Hills point to fragility of the eco-system: The Hindu Monday, May 22, 2006

Loss of green cover leading to soil erosion: environmentalists

Demands

Conduct environment impact assessment before clearing the ropeway project

Declare at least 300 metres around the hills as `core conservation area'



FRAGILE EARTH: Heavy rain caused a landslip at Chamundi Hills on Friday. Photo: M.A. Sriram The Hindu Monday, May 22, 2006

http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/13/stories/2006051319730300.htm

Buffer zone sought around Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Saturday, May 13, 2006

PHOTO: The Hindu Saturday, May 13, 2006


`Save Chamundi Betta' aims at preserving the ecosystem of the region

Objectives
Protection of flora and fauna on the hills
Introduction of solid waste management
Promotion of eco-tourism, research
Educating villagers on the need for conservation

http://www.thehindu.com/2006/05/11/stories/2006051108880300.htm

NGOs make out a case against ropeway project: The Hindu Thursday, May 11, 2006

http://www.hindu.com/2006/05/10/stories/2006051000720200.htm

`Save Chamundi Hills' campaign gains momentum: The Hindu Wedesday, May 10, 2006

http://www.hindu.com/2006/04/23/stories/2006042312410300.htm

Garbage removed from Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Sunday, Apr 23, 2006

It was organised by the district administration as part of the World Earth Day celebrations



MAINTAINING CLEANLINESS: Government officials cleaning the Chamundi Hills area on Saturday as part of World Earth Day.(VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Sunday, Apr 23, 2006

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1276524.cms

Amitabh to lure tourists to Mysore : The Times of India 27 Oct 2005, 0223 hrs IST, TNN

http://www.hindu.com/2005/09/23/stories/2005092314760300.htm

Support to save Chamundi Hills increasing in Mysore: The Hindu Fri, Sep 23, 2005



CRYING FOR ATTENTION: Unplanned development is threatening the very existence of the Chamundi Hills in Mysore. (VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Fri, Sep 23, 2005

http://www.hindu.com/2005/08/13/stories/2005081313040300.htm

Work on ropeway project put off: The Hindu Sat, Aug 13, 2005

http://www.hindu.com/2005/08/07/stories/2005080711460300.htm

Citizens want ropeway project at Chamundi Hills scrapped : The Hindu Sun, Aug 07, 2005



ROADBLOCK: The ropeway project at Chamundi Hills in Mysore has come under fire, as citizens say it will threaten the fragile ecosystem. (VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Sun, Aug 07, 2005

http://www.hindu.com/2005/07/22/stories/2005072213040300.htm

Ropeway at Chamundi Hills in 18 months: The Hindu Fri, Jul 22, 2005

http://www.hinduonnet.com/2005/03/06/stories/2005030609010300.htm

Ropeway to Chamundi Hills opposed :The Hindu Sun, Mar 06, 2005

http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/2004/12/22/stories/2004122212020300.htm

Forest fire in Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Wed, Dec 22, 2004



Forest fire engulfing the wooded area in Chamundi Hills in Mysore on Tuesday.(VIEW PHOTO) The Hindu Wed, Dec 22, 2004

http://www.hinduonnet.com/2004/05/02/stories/2004050210290500.htm

Leopard kills calf near Chamundi Hills: The Hindu Sunday, May 02, 2004

It is suspected that the garbage dumping yard on the Mysore-Ooty Highway adjoining the Chamundi Hills was proving to be a happy hunting ground for leopards as the place was full of street dogs living off the garbage.

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2004/01/29/stories/2004012901911900.htm
Plans to build ropeways to connect Nandi Hills, Chamundi Hills and Jog Falls: Business Line Thu, Jan 29, 2004

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2493514.cms

Task Force tells MUDA to disband plan to denotify land: The Times of India 01 Mar 2002, 2226 hrs IST, TNN (Times News Network)

http://www.indianexpress.com/res/web/pIe/ie/daily/19980921/26451574.html
A ropeway on the Chamundi Hills was also scheduled to be ready by next year (1999): INDIAN EXPRESS FRONT PAGE Monday, September 21, 1998

http://www.hindu.com/2008/08/06/stories/2008080657380300.htm

Ropeway: NOC sought without filing EIA report :The Hindu Wednesday, Aug 06, 2008

The conflicting views aired by the Karnataka Government on the proposed ropeway at Chamundi Hills and the difference of opinion among the local elected representatives on the subject have added to the confusion over the actual status of the vexed project.

The confusion has been confounded by the information provided by the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority that the project proponent has sought environmental clearance for the project but was yet to submit the environment impact assessment (EIA) report.

This means that the company, Sikka Interplant Systems Ltd., which has been awarded the work, is preparing the grounds to implement the ropeway project to which there is widespread opposition from a cross-section of society, including elected representatives.

The news about the company having filed for a no objection certificate (NOC) came to light when Syed Tanveeruddin, an activist of the Karanji and Siddarthanagar Tax Payers' Association, sought information pertaining to the project under the Right to Information Act.

Though the Department of Forests is yet to issue an NOC, according to the reply furnished by the authorities to Mr. Tanveeruddin, it is clear that the project has made sufficient progress by way of administrative clearance.

Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and environmentalists in the city now wonder if securing an NOC is a matter of formality to comply with the law as no public hearing or environmental impact assessment has been conducted at the project site.

The NGOs are peeved over the reply provided by the Authority which states that the "proponent has not submitted any environment impact assessment report".

The NGOs wonder if it is right for the Karnataka Government to depend on the EIA report to be filed by the company implementing the ropeway project.

"It is the duty of the Government to get an independent assessment done and not depend on the reports filed by the contractors who cannot be expected to be objective in their assessment of environmental damage. They will only refer to the possible negative impact in a cursory manner and fill the report with mitigatory measures they intend to take without highlighting the problems. This being the case, the Authority should get an independent view of the project impact," according to Mysore Amateur Naturalists (MAN), which is one of the NGOs opposed to the project.

Mr. Tanveeruddin pointed out that the company had not filed any application seeking consent for establishment under the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 and the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 to the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) regarding construction of ropeway at Chamundi Hills.

Hence even the KSPCB's Mysore regional office had not issued any consent or an NOC to the firm, he said.

Environmentalists have cautioned that these are mere technical issues and the company may receive consent on completion of the formalities.

"Hence what is of importance is the need to get an EIA report done by an independent body of experts not attached to the project proponents and contractors," according to MAN.

The ropeway project has been opposed on the grounds that Chamundi Hills is a single hillock devoid of any steep gradient.

Apart from the erosion of green cover and destruction to the fragile ecosystem, the flora and fauna of Chamundi Hills can be severely impacted by the construction activity and suffer degradation, according to the NGOs.

The need of the hour is a buffer zone to prevent encroachment around Chamundi Hills and not a ropeway, according to the activists.

Chamundi Hills was an important watershed for nearly 10 tanks.

Development projects will cause a devastation to Chamundi Hills and the forests on the slopes that forms part of the green belt / cover of Mysore.

Concrete structures / buildings

Land adjoining the hills had been illegally encroached by institutions, in the name of religion, and land mafia.

Chamundi Hills should be saved from encroachment and the perils of unbridled urbanisation and unregulated / unplanned / reckless "development".

Environmental Effects and Economic Feasibility

There was no study of immediate and long-term environmental effects nor was there a reality check of the economic feasibility of such projects.

The planning authority may please prepare a feasibility report for the proposed projects and make it available to the public.

`Government has not made an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)'

Any project that entailed ecological damage should be preceded by an environmental impact assessment (EIA) by a competent and independent body and the law stipulated this.

It was only after such an assessment a project could be cleared if it was found to be negative for environmental damage.

A series of landslips due to loss of green cover was reported in 2005 and the road leading to Chamundi Hills had to be closed for traffic for some time.

The Hon'ble Supreme Court of India has given unambiguous directives to the State Governments on environment protection and conservation.
It seems like the Forest Department has not objected to the so-called development works including the proposed ropeway project.

The Forest Department received Rs. 49.45 million to take up conservation work as Chamundi Hills was stated to be "facing serious problems".

Now, it unfortunately seems like the same Forest Department has no qualms about supporting the ropeway and other infrastructure projects though it / they entail(s) destruction of vast tracts of forests.

The Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) has handed over land to M/S Sikka Traders to set up a base station for the ropeway. Night bazaars will be established at Bannimantap and recreation parks at Nishad Bagh (Kuppanna Park), the Kukkarahalli Lake and Dalvoy Lake.

The horizontal expansion of Mysore is taking its toll on the fragile ecosystem, and the vacant land facing the eastern ridge of Chamundi Hill has already been developed and will be allotted as sites to the public in due course.

Development pressure, which has been confined to the northern side and western side of Chamundi Hills, is now visible in the southern extremities.

The only conservation measure of some significance was the notification of 105 acres of land for a heritage park at the foot of Chamundi Hills, which is to be developed by the MUDA.

The horizontal sprawl of Mysore, which is expected to envelop the eastern ridge of Chamundi Hills, is likely to intensify once the doubling of Mysore-Bangalore railway line and the opening of the Mysore airport are completed.

The concept of development as envisaged by the authorities includes creation of guesthouses, parking lots and infrastructure even as there are talks of reviving the vexed ropeway project.

But there is hardly any talk of retaining the ecological integrity of the Chamundi Hills by declaring a buffer zone to prevent further encroachment on its fragile environment.

The popularity of the Chamundi Hills among pilgrims and tourists has increased over the years, and the number of visitors increased from a few lakhs to 70 lakh last year (2007).

Such a rush can only spell doom to the fragile ecology. But neither the Government nor the Forest Department has ordered a study in this regard.

But what is intriguing is that the Government has decided to declare the Chamundi Hills as a notified area for the purpose of expediting development, while a plea for a similar notification for protecting the ecological integrity of the hills fell on deaf ears.

With the introduction of Dasoha or free meals for pilgrims, the number of visitors is bound to increase, which calls for special measures to ensure that the fragile ecology did not wilt.

But the authorities have paid little importance to conservation of open spaces or declaring a 500-metre buffer zone around the Chamundi Hills.

As a result, many residential layouts have come up and even Mysore Urban Development Authority (MUDA) has carved out over 10,000 sites along the eastern ridges of the Chamundi Hills.

This means, Mysore's growth, which was limited towards the western ridges all through centuries, will now be visible even along its eastern ridges.

The Government has relaxed land-use pattern, which is an open invitation to realtors and land sharks to step in.

Fenced Forestland for illegal grazing

The fence had been cut open at a few places to let the livestock in for illegal grazing. Illegal quarrying and making of bricks had further deteriorated the forest area outside the fence.

Trees are being cut down to bake bricks. Forest fires were another problem.

The landslip reported atop Chamundi Hills on Friday May 19, 2006 following heavy rain is a pointer to the fragility of the eco-system.

It also vindicates our opposition to the projects as Chamundi Hills was fragile and it could not withstand further ecological stress.

It also underlines the need to conduct an Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) to ascertain the feasibility of projects before they're cleared.

The forest area and green cover of Chamundi Hills had gradually been reduced to 25 sqkm in the absence of a "buffer zone" or "green belt".

We favour an ecological approach to development of Chamundi Hills and advocate / reiterate the imperatives of adopting an ecological approach to development.

Creation of a Buffer zone or green belt around Chamundi Hills

The buffer zone entails demarcating 500 metres around Chamundi Hills and notifying the land and banning all activities that threatens the ecology of the region due to change in land use pattern. This will regulate construction activity and prevent encroachment.

Core Conservation Area/Zone (300 metres)

To prevent encroachment and further erosion of green cover, at least 300 metres around the hills may please be declared "core conservation area/zone" where land can only be used for social forestry and conservation activity.

Peripheral Conservation Area/Zone PCA/PCZ (200 metres)

The remaining 200 metres may please be declared transitional or "peripheral conservation area" with emphasis on forestry, horticulture and agriculture.

Chamundi Hill Conservation Area (CHCA)

50 metres of land around a water body and its feeder channels may please be protected.

Preservation of the hill and its surroundings would recharge underground water, which could supply at least 25 per cent of the water requirement to a population of 16 lakh.

We also request the government to retrieve the encroached land and recruit more forest guards to check poaching and illegal grazing.