K’taka to decide on physical survey of Kasturirangan report areas after hearing public concerns: CM

Udupi, Karnataka - Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced on Friday that the government will consider the suggestion for a physical survey of areas covered in the Kasturirangan report, following public concerns expressed by residents and organizations in the region. Speaking to a gathering in Hebri, Shivakumar emphasized the need to understand the people's issues before deciding on the matter, with a deadline to respond to the Centre by September 27.

The Kasturirangan Committee proposed designating 37% of the Western Ghats, encompassing approximately 60,000 sq km across six states, as an Eco-Sensitive Area to strike a balance between conservation and development. The government convened a special session of the Assembly to deliberate on several issues, including farmers, drought, and the Kasturirangan report.

Shivakumar also stated that he would visit Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru to gather more insights from the locals. Regarding the Forest Rights Act, the government plans to consider a uniform 25-year limit across all states. Shivakumar assured that the government would not make any announcements without thorough examination and that they would not act based on emotions, but rather with a focus on the well-being of the people.