Bhagamandala: In a distressing turn of events, the pristine landscapes of Kodagu have become marred by the careless actions of tourists, as garbage heaps proliferate along its roads and sacred sites. A recent video footage has emerged, revealing the desecration of the revered Tala Cauvery, further incensing the local residents.
Kodagu, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and cultural heritage, has long been a favored destination for travelers seeking respite from urban life. However, the influx of tourists has brought with it an unintended consequence: environmental degradation.
Reports from concerned locals indicate a surge in littering and dumping of waste by visitors, tarnishing the once unspoiled vistas of Kodagu. The sight of garbage strewn across its roads not only defiles the scenic charm but also poses a grave threat to the delicate ecosystem of the region.
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Adding insult to injury, a recent viral video circulating on social media has exposed the appalling act of dumping garbage within the sacred precincts of Tala Cauvery. This holy site, revered by locals for its spiritual significance, has now been sullied by the callous disregard of those who ought to have shown reverence.
The desecration of Tala Cauvery has sparked outrage among the inhabitants of Kodagu, who view it as an affront to their cultural heritage and religious beliefs. Calls for strict enforcement of anti-littering laws and heightened vigilance against such acts of environmental vandalism are growing louder within the community.
A post posted by kodava_naad.official an Instagram handle, is viewed by thousands of people. “Leave only footprints, take only memories: Coorg is not your dustbin's. Coorg's plea to visitors,” a caption has been written.
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A social media user has commented that, “It is really unfortunate that people come to coorg for the reason it is beautiful and end up throwing garbage in every possible place. The most horrifying is these are educated people who go out and lecture social discipline. I have seen cars stop in the side slowly keep the garbage on the roadside and go. Eating fruits and chips and throwing the packets out of the car. Few years ago people from Coorg had formed a group who used to keep watch and chase them down and ask them to put away the garbage they had thrown. I think this should start everywhere.”
Epass like Ooty need in Kodagu:
Recently, the Madras High Court, emphasizing the seriousness of the issue, has ordered the regulation of vehicle entry to popular tourist destinations such as Ooty and Kodaikanal to protect the Nilgiris biosphere. To achieve this, the court has mandated the issuance of e-passes.
As a trial run, the court instructed the government to allow only vehicles with e-passes to enter. However, it clarified that for the current year, such passes can be issued without limitations. Local residents' vehicles, as well as commercial vehicles transporting essential goods and agricultural products, will be exceptions to this requirement.
The implementation of the e-pass system will provide data for a carrying capacity study conducted by the Indian Institute of Technology, Chennai, and the Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore.