Thousands of trees felled and burned in Kodagu reserve forest, allege activists

The Mundrote Forest Range, where the illegal activity occurred, is known for its diverse flora, boasting over 6,000 species of trees and plants. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Virajpet/Madikeri: Members of the Kodagu Ekikarana Ranga have raised alarm over the illegal felling of trees within the Padinalkunadu Reserve Forest area, situated near the Talacauvery Sanctuary in Kodagu district. 

Following a visit to the site, they reported that thousands of trees had been unlawfully axed, potentially endangering the sanctuary's rich biodiversity.

The Mundrote Forest Range, where the illegal activity occurred, is known for its diverse flora, boasting over 6,000 species of trees and plants, according to reports. However, encroachers have allegedly cleared more than five acres of reserve forest land, an act that could have serious ecological repercussions.

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Expressing concern over the incident, members of the Kodagu Ekikarana Ranga forum suspect the involvement of foresters in the illegal activity. They have filed a complaint with Ajjikuttira S Ponnanna, legal advisor to the Chief Minister of Karnataka and Virajpet MLA, seeking action against those responsible.

In a distressing turn, the culprits reportedly burned the felled trees, heightening the risk of a forest fire that could potentially spread to the Talacauvery sanctuary region. According to Kodagu Ekikarana Ranga, this deliberate act to erase evidence underscores the brazenness of the illegal activity.

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Authorities have booked three individuals in connection with the case, but concerns linger regarding the extent of the damage and the need for stricter enforcement measures to protect Kodagu's fragile ecosystem.

Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) Jaganath has stated that the department is currently determining whether the tree chopping occurred within the reserve forest area or on private land adjacent to the reserve forest area. Jaganath said that strict action will be taken against the culprits.

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