Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Feb 6: Eshwar Khandre, the state forest minister, held a press conference in the city and addressed various topics.

Regarding the newly introduced online registration process for trekking, Eshwar stated, “There is concern about environmental damage due to the high influx of trekkers on the Kumaraparvatha trekking route. Therefore, I have requested a report on measures to control the number of trekkers. Additionally, the online registration process has been implemented to facilitate the identification of trekkers in case of emergencies during trekking."

"In the Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ), numerous buildings have been constructed. After receiving complaints on this issue, I have instructed officials to conduct inspections and submit reports. Some farmers cultivate land plots smaller than three acres. In such cases, I have directed forest officials to reclaim encroached land without causing inconvenience to these farmers. Furthermore, a joint survey involving the forest and revenue departments is necessary. Encroached land will be reclaimed following the completion of the survey.

"Significant environmental damage is caused by the use of single-use plastic waste. We aim to make coastal areas plastic-free. All trekking routes in the state will be transitioned to an online registration process. The overcrowding of trekking routes, such as the Kumaraparvatha route spanning approximately 20 km, leads to inconvenience. We will establish limits on the number of trekkers through online registration and issue passes accordingly. It is imperative to regulate trekking activities promptly.

"I have personally inspected illegal activities within the CRZ. Stringent action will be taken against any illegal homestays or resorts.

"We will utilize helicopters to combat forest fires. If private helicopters are available for this purpose, we will utilize them as well. There is no necessity for separate helicopters for the forest department. A survey is underway regarding the controversy surrounding the Beltangady Kalenja forest land. Once completed, I will provide a statement,” he said.