Karnataka: Save Bandipur trends on social media in light of proposed railway line

A “Save Bandipur” campaign has been trending on social media. This is in light of reports that suggest that a railway line is being proposed from Nilambar in Kerala to Nanjangud in Karnataka which would pass through the forest. Connectivity would be established via Wayanad. A report for the project is in its final stages. An aerial survey remains to be conducted. 

This has however resulted in outrage among environmentalists. Their argument is that development at the cost of the destruction of natural resources is not needed. The activists had gathered largely due to mobilisation by the Mysore-bed Gandhadagudi foundation and Mysuru Memes. The apprehension is that the project would result in deforestation and loss of habitat for wild animals. This may also result in problems in urban areas if the wild animals are to venture out for their surroundings. “Why does "Development" always have the need to destroy ecology , especially Protected Areas, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries?” a user on X remarked. 

Cabinet Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment in the Government of Karnataka Eshwar Khandre visited the protected regions of the Bandipur forest meant for tigers. He spoke about considering the request by the neighbouring state Kerala. He also talked about implementing a restriction on vehicles during night in the forest.

Why does "Development" always has the need to destroy ecology , especially Protected Areas, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries ?

It takes 100s of years for an interdependent ecology to be formed n even a little change destroys the food chain.#SaveBandipur#EcoSensitivepic.twitter.com/ofuoZ47vUu

— Bharati (@BharatiVarsh) January 30, 2024