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Karnataka Wildlife Board Halts Quarrying Near Sanctuary
11 Oct
Summary
- Four stone quarry proposals near Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary were rejected.
- Rejected sites were within the eco-sensitive zone notified on June 4, 2025.
- Prohibitions on mining activities within 1km of sanctuaries are being enforced.
The Karnataka State Board for Wildlife has recently denied four stone quarry proposals that posed a threat to the Kappatagudda Wildlife Sanctuary. These rejected quarrying sites were situated within the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) that was officially notified on June 4, 2025, by the Union environment ministry. The proposed quarrying operations, spanning nearly 3.2 hectares across Magadi and Parasapura villages in Gadag, were located between 422 and 997 metres from the sanctuary's boundary.
Forest Minister Ramalinga Reddy confirmed that the ESZ notification strictly prohibits all mining activities, including stone quarrying and crushing, within the designated zone. The forest department, citing reports from the deputy conservator of forests, did not recommend these proposals. This decision aligns with Supreme Court directives that enforce restrictions on mining within 1 kilometre of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, ensuring the protection of ecologically sensitive habitats.
