Bengaluru: The govt’s plans to develop ropeway projects to Karnataka‘s tallest peak, Mullayanagiri, and nearby Seethalayanagiri in Chikkamagaluru, are being criticised by environmentalists and conservation groups, cautioning that they could cause ecological damage to the fragile Chandradrona mountain range nestled in Western Ghats.Stating that the proposed cable car connecting the two peaks to Kaimara is unscientific, G Veeresh, a conservation activist from Chikkamagaluru, said, “It is also risky given the fragile nature of the landscape. If the govt pursues the project, it will cause irreversible damage to the landscape.”Activists further pointed out that Mullayanagiri is home to ecologically sensitive shola forests, grasslands and several endemic species of flora and fauna. “Shola forests help in retention of water, which eventually drains into various streams and rivulets and supports several species of unique fauna,” said another activist from Chikkamagaluru.Conservationists recalled the previous BJP-led state govt proposed the same projects connecting these peaks, but it was eventually dropped following widespread protests in the region. “The project and its associated works could alter the landscape and disrupt natural water systems in the area. Mullayanagiri and surrounding hills serve as the origin of several streams and rivers, including Yagachi and Veda rivers, which support downstream agriculture and drinking water needs,” Veeresh explained.Referring to the govt’s justification that the project would promote tourism and generate revenue for local communities, critics argued that such claims shouldn’t overshadow ecological risks. HC halts Sharavati project activities for nowThe high court Tuesday passed an interim order on the proposed Sharavati pumped storage project. “We direct that no steps or activities in furtherance of the project shall be carried out on the ground, that is within the boundaries of Sharavati Lion Tailed Macaque (LTM) Sanctuary and eco-sensitive zone in the forest, without orders from this court,” a division bench of Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice CM Poonacha observed, while posting the PIL against the project to June 10 for further consideration.
