Karnataka Rejects Kasturirangan Report in Current Form, Requests Ground Survey of Western Ghats.

Karnataka Rejects Kasturirangan Report, Calls for Ground Survey of Western Ghats

The Government of Karnataka has officially rejected the Kasturirangan report on environmental conservation in its current form, requesting a ground survey of the Western Ghats region to reassess the recommendations proposed in the report. This decision highlights the states concerns regarding the potential impact of the suggested conservation measures on local communities and economic development.

The Kasturirangan report, released in 2013, recommended the designation of certain areas in the Western Ghats as ecologically sensitive, leading to stricter regulatory measures for land use and development in those zones. The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its rich biodiversity and serves as a crucial ecological zone that supports numerous flora and fauna.

State officials have emphasized the need for a comprehensive ground survey to gather more accurate data on the region, considering the latest developments and local perspectives. Critics argue that the existing recommendations could adversely affect farming, tourism, and other livelihood activities in the area.

The Karnataka government’s request for a review and on-ground assessment is part of its broader strategy to balance environmental protection with sustainable development. The outcome of these surveys may also influence future state policies on land usage and environmental conservation protocols in the Western Ghats region.