Kalaburagi, May 18: Karnataka’s Minister for Forests, Environment, and Ecology, Eshwar Khandre, announced on Monday that the government will implement necessary measures to increase greenery in the Kalyana Karnataka region. This area is currently facing a severe shortage of forests and trees, leading to irregular weather patterns.
Speaking to the media after inaugurating a new zoo near Madbul village in the Chittapur assembly constituency, Khandre emphasized the need for greater awareness about environmental conservation.
He stated that the Kalyana Karnataka region is critically lacking in greenery, which is disrupting the balance of the climate. There is a pressing need to raise awareness about environmental protection. The issue will be discussed in the upcoming KKRDB meeting, where steps will be taken to allocate necessary funds.
Khandre noted that this new zoo is the second largest in the Kalyana Karnataka region, following the zoo in Hampi. He praised Rural Development and IT Minister Priyank Kharge for showing particular interest in this project. The zoo, built on 42.33 acres of land at a cost of 440 million rupees, is expected to become a major tourist attraction in the area.
The zoo will house 56 different species of animals. Two tigers have already been brought from Bannerghatta National Park. Currently, visitors can see crocodiles, foxes, and several other animals. More species of animals and birds will be introduced in the coming months.
Khandre stressed the importance of extensive tree planting, noting that only one to two percent of the area is currently green. The government plans to launch large-scale tree planting campaigns to improve this situation. Discussions regarding the allocation of necessary funds for enhancing greenery in the region will take place during the 2026-27 KKRDB meeting.
In response to a question about vacant positions in the Forest Department, Khandre mentioned that Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has already approved the recruitment of additional veterinarians for the department, and further steps will be taken to fill other essential positions in the coming days.
The minister warned that strict action would be taken against those illegally cutting trees on forest or government land. However, he clarified that permits are available for cutting trees on private land. Regarding encroachments on forest land, he stated that the government has intensified its campaign to remove encroachments across the state.
So far, approximately 10,000 acres of forest land have been cleared of encroachments, including around 200 acres in Bengaluru. The Supreme Court has also directed the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) on this matter. Since the current government took office, about 1.1 million plants have been planted across the state, with nearly 90 percent of them surviving.
He instructed officials to ensure adequate water and protection for these plants for at least five years. The tigers brought from Bannerghatta National Park will receive proper food and care to adapt to the local climate.
Khandre expressed hope that all remaining identified species of animals and birds will be brought to the zoo within the next three months.
Leave a Comment