Land Conversion Rages On in Kodagu, Say Activists
Environmental activists in Kodagu have raised concerns over rampant illegal land conversion in the region, with locals and outsiders alike capitalizing on the area's natural resources.
Illegal Land Conversion a Growing Concern
According to retired Colonel CP Muthanna, secretary of Save Kodagu, a non-governmental organization working to preserve Kodagu's green cover, the district has witnessed a surge in unauthorized land conversion in recent times.
The Issues in Kodagu
- Permission granted for the conversion of approximately 40 acres for a rest house within the Kiragandur gram panchayat limits in Somwarpet taluk has been disputed.
- A request to cancel the land conversion has been submitted to the Deputy Commissioner.
- Unchecked land conversion is depleting Kodagu's green and forest resources.
- The flow of Cauvery water is being affected.
Urbanization and Land Conversion
Colonel Muthanna has warned that if such activities continue, towns like Gonikoppal and Virajpet will turn into large cities like Mysuru in a few years.
Developments in Kodagu
- A company is developing a large housing extension in Bittangala.
- Another firm is engaged in real estate development in Gonikoppal.
- A private commercial company has purchased large tracts of land from a major coffee-growing estate in Siddapura with the intention of converting it for real estate use.
- A four-acre field in Mugutageri village near the Ponnampet–Hudikeri Road has been filled with soil in preparation for a housing colony.
Calls for Action
Save Kodagu office-bearer Maletira Srinivas has expressed concern over the rapid urbanization of Somwarpet, Madikeri, and Kushalnagar, which he fears will lead to the loss of the region's natural resources.
Similar housing projects are underway near Balugodu, Bittangala, Aingala, Madikeri, and Kalakeri Nidugane.
Action is Needed to Preserve Kodagu's Natural Resources!