Proposal afoot to make Mangalore a Bruhath Corporation - Ramanath Rai

Pics: Dayanand Kukkaje
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (BG/DV)

Mangalore, Jun 17: There are requests from some people to convert forest land into agricultural land, and at the same time there is also opposition to this move. The government plans to take over agricultural land in the forest reserve areas, but a final decision will be taken only after considering both views and keeping in mind the conservation of forests, said forest, ecology and environment minister Ramanath Rai, addressing reporters at meet-the-press here on Monday June 17.

"The previous government had permitted the diversion of Netravati River from Sakleshpur. But if this is done, there will be fear of reduction in ground water level," he said.

He further informed that the union government has given green signal to the widening of stretch of highway between Hassan and Mangalore to four lanes, for which a Japanese company has come forward to complete the work. Within five years the road will be built, he said.

“Proposal has been submitted to the union government to make Mangalore City Corporation a Bruhath Mangalore City Corporation, so as to get more funds sanctioned for development. Hasire Usiru project has been proposed for the development of the district along with forest conservation. On June 25, a state level workshop will be organized for officers to discuss complete development of the district,” he said.

A task force will be formed to oversee all developmental projects related to the district, and the same will be discussed during a special meeting. "A new forest committee will be formed in every district. Already title deeds have been provided under the Forest Law for those residing in forests. The tribals living in the Western Ghats forests from three generations have also been given title deed and soon others will also get," he said.

“People in this district are well educated. During my political tenure, I have received full support from media and the public. I hope this support will continue in the future and equilibrium between government and people is maintained,” he added.