Karnataka CM DK Shivakumar has directed to restart safari in Bandipur and Nagarhole. Also ordered to resolve technical issues of Mekedatu project and removal of dangerous trees in Bengaluru.
Instructions on Safari Restoration and Mekedatu Project
Bengaluru (Karnataka) [भारत]June 30 (ANI): Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has directed officials to resume safari and eco-tourism activities in Bandipur and Nagarhole national parks. He has asked to ensure that all necessary safety measures are strictly followed. He also directed the officials to investigate any minor technical problems related to the Mekedatu project and resolve them effectively. The Chief Minister said that Tamil Nadu is raising objections in the Supreme Court citing such minor grounds.
These instructions were issued during the meeting of the Standing Committee of Karnataka State Wildlife Board held in the committee room of Vidhana Soudha under the chairmanship of the Chief Minister.
Emphasis on ensuring the safety of tourists
Officials told the meeting that the density of tigers and leopards in the eco-tourism and safari areas of Bandipur and Nagarhole is higher than in areas where human-wildlife conflict occurs frequently. In view of this, the Chief Minister said that safari activities should be resumed only after taking all precautionary and security measures to ensure the safety of tourists.
Concern over human-wildlife conflict
Officials told the meeting that the construction of the BMICH corridor has disrupted the traditional movement routes of elephants, tigers and leopards. As a result, wildlife is wandering out of the forest areas towards Channapatna and Ramnagar, increasing human-wildlife conflict. He further said that the permission for the Bengaluru-Mysore Expressway included conditions for building underpasses, overpasses and wildlife corridors for the safe passage of animals, but these conditions were not properly implemented during construction.
Order to remove dangerous trees in Bengaluru
Standing committee members pointed out that despite earlier clear instructions on removal of dry and dangerous trees and branches within BBMP limits, poor implementation has led to accidents due to falling of trees and branches during rain and wind. Responding to this, the Chief Minister directed the officials concerned to immediately identify dangerous trees and branches, remove them and take preventive action, while giving priority to public safety. (ANI)
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