State Leaders Unify Against Eco-Sensitive Area Notification
Karnataka state leaders across political parties are preparing to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi regarding the ongoing Western Ghats row. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that an all-party delegation of MPs and MLAs will travel to New Delhi to present the state’s collective position.
The controversy centers on the Centre’s draft notification implementing the Kasturirangan Committee recommendations. The draft proposes declaring over 20,600 square kilometers across 10 Karnataka districts as Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESA).
Karnataka State Action Plan on Kasturirangan Notification:
Draft ESA Notification Issued ──► Karnataka Assembly Special Session Debate
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Final State Resolution ◄── All-Party Delegation to PM Modi ◄── Farmers & Local Concerns
Impact on Local Farming Communities and Coffee Growers
Local farmers, coffee growers, and village leaders in affected districts like Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, and Kodagu have raised strong objections. They argue that rigid ESA regulations will restrict agricultural activities, housing construction, and local infrastructure growth.
Proposed ESA Restrictions (Kasturirangan Draft)
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Agriculture & Plantations Infrastructure & Housing
(Restricted expansion/survey) (Construction bans/permits)
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Protests by Local Farmers & Coffee Growers
D.K. Shivakumar reassured residents that forest officials have been instructed not to issue notices that create anxiety among rural households. The state government advocates for physical ground surveys rather than satellite-based mapping.
Overview of Affected Regions in Karnataka Under Proposed Draft
| Region Parameter | Draft Proposal Metrics | Local Impact & Demands |
| Total ESA Proposed Area | 20,668 Square Kilometers | Covers vast agricultural and forest lands. |
| Districts Covered | 10 Districts (including Hassan, Kodagu) | Encompasses 33 taluks and 1,449 villages. |
| Primary Economic Activity | Agriculture & Coffee Plantations | Residents fear severe restrictions on livelihoods. |
| Key Demand to Centre | Rejection of Draft / Physical Ground Survey | Demands ground-level survey before finalizing limits. |
Legislative Resolution and Next Steps
The Karnataka Legislative Assembly is holding a special session to discuss the notification and draft a unified resolution. The state aims to protect ecological stability while safeguarding rural livelihoods.
The delegation will present this resolution directly to central leaders before the deadline for filing official objections expires.