Latest news with #MariaChristuRajaD
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Forest clearance delay stalls Belagavi Ring Road project
Belagavi: The ambitious Belagavi Ring Road project, aimed at decongesting city traffic, has hit a major roadblock due to the delay in securing forest clearance. The project remains stalled as state forest officials failed to respond to queries raised by the Union ministry of environment, forest and climate change. The Centre approved the project in three phases, allocating Rs 1,622 crore for the construction of a 34.5-kilometre ring road in the first phase. Union minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari laid the foundation stone in Feb 2024, calling it a key infrastructure upgrade for Belagavi. The proposed road cuts through 27.3 hectares of reserve forest in the villages of Honaga, Kakati, Sonatti, Kanabargi, and Kalakhamb. Belagavi deputy conservator of forests (DCF) Maria Christu Raja D submitted his inspection report in Aug 2024, and based on his report, the state forest department recommended the diversion of forest land to the Centre in Jan 2025. However, questions have now been raised over the accuracy and completeness of the report submitted by the DCF. Bengaluru-based environmental activist Ramprasad flagged potential discrepancies, citing satellite images that allegedly show encroachment on portions of the forest land recommended for diversion, which were not mentioned in the DCF's report. Following the activist's complaint, the central forest department asked the state govt to submit a factual report by June 10, a deadline that has since lapsed without compliance. The failure to provide a factual report is now the primary reason for the delay in greenlighting the Ring Road Project. DCF Maria Christu Raja D declined to comment on the matter. Meanwhile, Belagavi South MLA Abhay Patil, a strong advocate for the project, expressed his frustration over the delay. "We worked hard to get this major project sanctioned by the Centre, but the inefficiency of local forest officials is stalling it. If the DCF fails to submit the required factual report within 15 days, I will protest in front of his office," he warned.
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Time of India
Rampant use of drones at Chikhale Waterfall raises alarm
Belagavi: The unchecked use of drones by tourists at Chikhale Waterfall — located within the Kanakumbi forest range of Khanapur taluk and falling under the eco-sensitive zone of the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary — is raising concerns among environmentalists and officials. Despite prohibition under Environmental Protection Act, 1986, drones continue to be operated in the area, allegedly under the watch of forest department personnel. The forest department reopened Chikhale Waterfall to tourists on June 21, allowing entry through tickets. The scenic spot, about 45 km from Belagavi, has recorded a rise in footfall following heavy rainfall that revived several waterfalls in Khanapur. Visitors must undertake a 2-km trek from the designated parking zone to access the site. Recently, the TOI reported the absence of adequate monitoring mechanisms to prevent tourists from taking risky selfies and videos at the waterfall's edge. This issue at Chikhale Waterfall echoes similar violations reported last year at Vajrapoha Falls, another site within the Bhimgad zone, where the illegal use of drones sparked public outcry. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Drones are banned in protected areas like tiger reserves, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries and eco-sensitive zones because they pose threats to wildlife, compromise security. The sound and presence of drones are known to distress animals such as tigers, bears and deer, disrupting their natural behaviour, including feeding, mating and resting cycles. Experts also warn that drones can be used to scout forest areas, track animal movement and monitor the activities of forest officials, potentially assisting poachers. In addition to the ecological threat, drone misuse also raises privacy concerns of visitors. Deputy conservator of forests and member secretary of the Bhimgad Eco-Sensitive Zone, Maria Christu Raja D, told TOI, "We check for restricted items, including drones, before permitting entry. However, there are nearby private lands and another entry point through a nearby settlement. People using drone could be entering from those areas."
Time of India
28-05-2025
- Time of India
Tourist entry into Khanapur forest banned during monsoon
Belagavi: The forest department has banned entry of tourists into Khanapur forest during the monsoon season, citing safety concerns and environmental protection. Heavy rains revived many of the region's waterfalls, attracting an influx of adventure-seeking tourists. However, the department warned that any attempt to violate the ban, particularly by youths, will result in strict legal action. The move comes in response to a recent incident involving a group of young people who illegally entered restricted forest areas, including Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary. They bypassed checkpoints to reach the Vajrapoha waterfalls near Chapoli, where they reportedly heard the roar of a big cat. The group documented their unauthorised trek and posted videos on social media, which went viral. Following the incident, forest officials arrested the individuals and imposed fines for trespassing. Speaking to the TOI, deputy conservator of forests (DCF) Maria Christu Raja D said, "After that incident, entry to prohibited areas has been restricted for tourists in all seasons." The Khanapur taluk forest is known for its scenic monsoon waterfalls, which are popular with tourists from Belagavi, Goa, Hubballi, Dharwad and surrounding areas. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Un Français invente un robot de trading 100% Gratuit Actualité Finance Lire la suite Undo However, these attractions lie deep within protected forest zones that feature dangerous terrain and frequent sightings of wildlife, including leopards, bears and tigers. As part of the enforcement measures, the department has set up checkposts at key entry points and intensified surveillance. Entry to waterfalls, especially those within Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, is now strictly off-limits. Officials have urged tourists to respect the ban and prioritise their safety. "The entire western belt of Khanapur is covered in dense forest. During the monsoon, slippery moss-covered paths and poor visibility make these areas extremely hazardous," the department sources said, adding that "There have been multiple incidents in recent years where tourists got injured or lost their lives after venturing into these zones." DCF Maria Christu Raja D said several tourists are being turned away daily at checkpoints. The department reiterated that any future violations, particularly those involving dangerous stunts or social media reels in restricted areas, will be met with severe legal consequences.
