Mounesh Vishwakarma

Daijiworld Media Network - Bantwal

Bantwal, Feb 21: Tensions flared in Kelinja, Bantwal, as members of the Karnataka State Farmers Association and Green Army gathered to protest the illegal felling of valuable trees, including sandalwood, for a private power line project.

The protestors accused a private company, contracted for the 400 KV power supply project between Udupi and Kasaragod, of unlawfully clearing forest land in the Siri Chandan area, part of the Ballamale reserve.

The protesters included prominent figures like Manohar Shetty, state secretary of the Karnataka Farmers Association, and other key leaders such as local farmers Prakash Shetty, Ashok Kumar Shetty, and Sathish Kini. They claimed that the company, responsible for installing power towers, had cut down several high-value trees, endangering both the environment and their livelihoods.

“They’ve destroyed our land and livelihood without any notice,” said Manohar Shetty. “This project is not just damaging the environment, but the poor farmers are left in fear of losing their land,” he said.

The protestors blocked the newly constructed road leading to the tower site, demanding an immediate halt to the destruction.

Despite the protests, the company, with assistance from the police, repaired the road and resumed construction. “This is a serious breach of law and the environment,” Shetty added.

The protest has also raised allegations of political support for the company, with activists accusing local politicians and officials of turning a blind eye to the illegal actions. Farmers are now demanding the restoration of the felled trees and a halt to the project, which they believe threatens both the forest and their livelihoods.