Mysuru: Thirteen years after the High Level Working Group on the Western Ghats, chaired by K Kasturirangan, submitted its report, debate over its implementation continues to divide opinion in the Malnad region. Confusion over the proposed Eco-Sensitive Area (ESA) provisions has fuelled concerns, with activists alleging that misinformation is being spread to protect controversial projects and commercial interests.Environmentalists claim vested interests, including politicians, are misrepresenting the report to facilitate activities such as mining, ropeway projects, pumped-storage schemes, river diversion and large-scale tourism in ecologically sensitive areas. They also blame the delayed Kannada translation of the report for preventing people from understanding its recommendations.Wildlife conservationist G Veeresh from Chikkamagaluru said the report was translated into Kannada only recently, leaving many residents unaware of its contents. He noted that of the proposed 20,668 sq km ESA, more than 16,000 sq km is already protected under existing forest and wildlife laws. “The original report has already been diluted. It is being opposed without people fully understanding its recommendations,” he said.Conservation biologist Keshava H Korse argued that the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, offers stronger safeguards than the ESA notification, but alleged that even its provisions are being weakened to enable projects such as the Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project.Rejecting claims that the report threatens local communities, Korse said it does not propose eviction of farmers, tribals or other residents, nor does it undermine livelihoods or land rights. He added that many people mistakenly believe ESA notification would deprive them of basic facilities. According to him, a dedicated development policy for the low-density Malnad region could address such concerns. He also stressed that Gram Sabhas should have a role in managing natural resources.Joseph Hoover, former member of the State Wildlife Board, said supporters of the Kasturirangan recommendations are willing to engage in an open discussion with the government. He maintained that the report targets only red-category industries, mining and large projects in eco-sensitive areas.“The report is not against people. Instead of implementing it in the public interest, the state government is creating confusion. Those seeking to push destructive projects in the Western Ghats are behind the misinformation campaign,” Hoover alleged.
