BENGALURU: Based on the suggestions made by the cabinet sub-committee in a meeting on Wednesday, it was noted that the Karnataka government cannot implement the recommendations of the Kasturirangan Committee issued by the Union Government.
Speaking to the media, Forest, Environment, and Ecology Minister Eshwar B Khandre, who is also the chairman of the cabinet sub- committee said that the recommendations of the committee to notify 20,668 sqkm an eco-sensitive zone cannot be done. The State Government has already notified and protected 16,632 sq km in various forms, like sanctuaries, national parks, and eco-sensitive zones. There are 1,533 homes, villages, and other residential habitats in the remaining area. The rights and livelihood of people need to be protected, he said.
Khandre said the discussion and recommendations made during the cabinet sub-committee meeting will be conveyed to CM Siddaramaiah, and the cabinet will take a final decision, which will be conveyed to the Centre. States have time till the end of September to submit their replies. Also, the opinions of 10 Western Ghats district administrations in Karnataka have been elicited, and the same will be submitted to the CM, he added.