In the wake of the recent landslide disaster in Shirur, Uttara Kannada, the government has mandated the eviction of illegal resorts and homestays in forested and hilly areas. However, in Kodagu district, residents are questioning the enforcement of this order amidst ongoing violations.
The focus is on a 6.25-acre plot in Peruru village, Madikeri taluk, bought by Kerala entrepreneurs who are accused of encroaching on both private and government land to build a resort on a vulnerable hillside. The 250 families in Doddapulikotu village, situated at the base of Peruru Hill, recall a similar landslide in 2020 and fear that the new construction could trigger another disaster.
Villagers have reported that the developers have encroached on five acres of government land and commenced construction without the necessary land conversion permits, which were only applied for 20 days ago. Additionally, the installation of a transformer box at the site has raised concerns about possible collusion between the developers and government officials.
Peruru Hill, a critical water source for the village, is classified as a “Buffer Zone” of the Western Ghats, where such construction activities are heavily regulated. Residents, including Lava Nanaiah, are calling for an immediate halt to the construction.
Kodagu DC Venkata Raja has acknowledged the environmental risks and pledged to investigate, promising legal action against those involved, including officials who may have facilitated the illegal activities.
Read More: