Mangalore, September 10: Members of National Environment Care Foundation held a protest in front of the DC’s office here, criticizing the exploitation of natural resources in the Western Ghats and requesting the state government to implement the Gadgil report.
H Shashidhar Shetty said that when the tiger is spotted in the city, it becomes news. But, when the people go to the forest to loot natural resources, it is ignored unfortunately. From a local leader to ministers, no one shows concern to animals, who are deprived of shelter due to deforestation, he added.
He also demanded that the Gadgil report was environment friendly and it should be implemented soon. He said that the government has to release funds to safeguard animals, flora and fauna and appoint a committee to monitor its functioning. He said the tribal community who are evacuated from the forest area should be provided with alternative shelter and implement tiger project.
Moreover, he requested the authorities not allow trekking and mining in the region. The government has to strictly follow the direction of the Supreme Court, by not allowing heavy vehicles in the Bandipura and Nagarahole forests. Opening of resorts in the forest too will spoil the loveliness of the forest, he added.
After the protest, a memorandum was submitted to the Deputy Commissioner by the members.
Tiger dance was performed by the children apparently exhibiting the beauty of tigers and deforestation endangering their lives.
