Activists condemned tree felling in Sathagalli, urging authorities to stop environmental destruction for proposed Mysuru Dasara Kambala preparations.
MYSURU
The Joint Action Committee, uniting farmer, Dalit, and environmental groups, has strongly condemned tree felling and ecosystem destruction in Sathagalli. Activists slammed authorities for clearing green cover to prepare a venue for Kambala during the upcoming Mysuru Dasara celebrations.
Parisarakke Naavu General Secretary Parashuramegowda refuted official claims that no environmental harm would occur, exposing illegal deforestation at the local site.
The activist collective criticized sports officials for serious dereliction of duty and violating environmental protection laws. They urged the Forest Department to immediately deny all further tree-cutting permits and save the city’s remaining urban green cover.
Given that Karnataka is currently battling severe drought-like conditions and climate challenges, the committee appealed directly to state leadership. They demanded the immediate cancellation of Kambala preparations in Mysuru, urging the government to prioritize protecting the region’s fragile ecosystem instead of destroying public natural spaces.
Concerns highlighted by the committee:
- Illegal Felling: Officials chopped 36 trees in late June, prompting a Forest Department FIR, while 33 more face felling.
- Habitat Destruction: Unauthorized clearing destroyed crucial habitats for local birds, reptiles, and wildlife before land was officially handed over.
- Past Oppositions: A previous sports stadium proposal for the MUDA-owned parkland was shelved following strong public and environmental pushback.
- Widespread Protest: Heritage experts, farmers, and civic groups firmly oppose holding traditional Kambala events at the expense of local ecology.
