Environmental Alarm in Kodagu as Trees Chopped Near Talacauvery Wildlife Sanctuary

Environmentalists and activists in Kodagu have raised concerns over the alleged felling and burning of trees near the Talacauvery Wildlife Sanctuary in the Mundrote Range of the Padinalkunadu Reserve Forest. Members of the Kodagu Ekikarana Ranga lodged a complaint with the Forest Department, prompting the registration of an FIR and an ongoing investigation. The Mundrote Forest Range, known for its rich flora, including over 6,000 species of trees and plants, is located near the Kerala border where the illegal activity reportedly occurred.

Environmental activist Thamoo Poovaiah highlighted the seriousness of the issue, stating that the burnt trees increase the risk of forest fires spreading to the Talacauvery Sanctuary. The Forest Department has filed a case against three individuals, and further investigation is underway to determine if the tree-felling occurred within the reserve forest or on adjacent private land. Minister for Ecology, Environment, and Forest, Eshwar Khandre, has been alerted about the incident and plans to send senior officials to the site for further investigation.