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Hillside Collapse Threatens Thirthahalli Town: Environmental Warning Ignored
7 Feb
Summary
- 34.4 acres of Shola-type forest land is being leveled for a layout.
- Leopard, deer, and rare birds inhabit the threatened Kopparige Gudda ecosystem.
- Environmentalist warns of landslides and river course change, submerging towns.
An environmental crisis is unfolding at Kopparige Gudda in Thirthahalli, Karnataka, where 34.4 acres of land are being leveled for a new layout. This action is altering a hill that functions as a Shola-type forest, crucial for Malnad's heavy rainfall and supporting diverse wildlife, including leopards and rare birds.
The ecosystem's damage by heavy machinery raises serious fears of landslides. Environmentalists warn that if Kopparige Gudda collapses, it could force the Kushavati River to change its course, potentially burying Thirthahalli town and surrounding settlements. Local authorities have been criticized for permitting this destruction despite environmental regulations.
Despite a legislator's condemnation of the tahsildar for ignoring the widespread hill destruction and encroachment, the tahsildar claims most of the land is privately owned. The forest department's assistant conservator was unavailable for comment, and a geologist is awaiting further reports.
