Minister orders action over industrial effluent discharge into Bhima River in Yadgir district

Karnataka's Forest, Ecology and Environment Minister, Ramalinga Reddy, visited three forest research centres and mini forests near Bengaluru on September 28. During his inspection, he directed officials to remove numerous acacia and eucalyptus trees from the Kalkere Research Centre, Doresanipalya Forest Research Station, and Turahalli Minor Forest.

Reddy explained that these non-native trees inhibit the growth of native species crucial for the environment. He instructed the officials to study the Union government's Urban Forest Scheme and plant a diverse range of local species that benefit the region's climate and ecosystem.

The 30-acre Kalkere Research Centre is home to 4,722 trees of 126 different species, many of which have permanent plaques offering information to visitors and researchers. Reddy also directed officials to install facilities such as toilets and drinking water. At the 38-acre Turahalli Mini Forest, he asked for a Detailed Project Report (DPR) to establish a new 35-acre arboretum, complete with basic facilities to encourage visits and raise awareness about the importance of forests.

The Minister emphasized the need for constructing small lakes and check dams to conserve water during the rainy season for the benefit of animals and birds.