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Chamundi Hills: Sacred Site or Concrete Jungle?
28 Nov
Summary
- Activists fear growing commercialization is destroying Chamundi Hills' ecosystem.
- Development under the PRASHAD scheme is being criticized for promoting concretization.
- Chamundi Hills boasts significant biodiversity, including 153 butterfly and 193 bird species.
The fragile ecosystem of Chamundi Hills, a crucial green lung for Mysuru, faces growing threats from commercialization and development. Activists are protesting plans under the Union government's PRASHAD scheme, which aims to enhance tourist amenities but risks increasing concretization. These efforts come amidst a revival of the 'Save Chamundi Hills' movement, highlighting a stark conflict between development and conservation.
Critics argue that the PRASHAD scheme's proposed additions, such as stone columns and redesigned pathways, will further encroach upon the natural landscape. Calls to relocate existing commercial structures and prioritize biodiversity preservation have been made, yet the Chamundi Hill Development Authority, chaired by the Chief Minister, has reportedly focused on political proposals for amenities over environmental protection.
Chamundi Hills, recognized as a biodiversity hotspot, supports a rich array of flora and fauna, including numerous butterfly and bird species, and various mammals. Despite its ecological significance and official reserve forest status, its preservation seems to be overlooked. Activists are advocating for a ban on private vehicles to mitigate pollution and are warning that current development plans could irrevocably harm the hills.
