Over the past 19 years, Karnataka’s Western Ghats districts have witnessed 1,403 landslides, claiming 98 lives, according to a report by the state’s Department of Revenue and Disaster Management. Uttara Kannada recorded the highest number of landslides (609), followed by Chikkamagaluru (260), Kodagu (188), and Dakshina Kannada (166). Kodagu suffered the most fatalities (53), while Uttara Kannada and Dakshina Kannada reported 34 and 11 deaths, respectively.

The report identifies 482.67 sq km across eight districts as landslide-prone, with Kodagu being the most vulnerable, where over 96% of its total area is at risk. Dakshina Kannada (94.9%) and Uttara Kannada (81.53%) also face significant threats. Experts warn that unregulated tourism and unchecked development are worsening the situation, particularly in Kodagu and Chikkamagaluru.

“Thousands of illegal homestays have encroached upon forest land, harming the region’s fragile ecosystem. The government must enforce stricter regulations,” said a wildlife conservationist from Chikkamagaluru. A city-based wildlife activist added, “Poorly planned infrastructure projects, including dams and highways, are causing more harm than good in eco-sensitive zones.”

Encroachment of forest land is another pressing issue, with Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, Uttara Kannada, Udupi, and Dakshina Kannada being the worst affected. While eviction drives have cleared 570 acres in Shivamogga, only 125 acres have been reclaimed in Chikkamagaluru. Experts stress that without stronger enforcement, landslides will continue to devastate the region.