Mysuru: Environmental activists have announced a major protest in Mysuru after 46 trees were allegedly felled illegally along the banks of the Kapila River in Hejjige village of Nanjangud taluk earlier this month, with the accused still absconding two weeks after the incident.
The protest is scheduled to take place on Monday at 11:30 am in front of Aranya Bhavan, where members of multiple organisations will gather to demand swift action against those responsible.
Multiple organisations to join protest
Environmental groups including Parisarakkaagi Naavu, Karnataka Rajya Raitha Sangha, Mysuru Grahakara Parishat, and Karnataka Rashtra Samithi Paksha are expected to participate.
Following the demonstration, activists plan to submit a memorandum to the Chief Conservator of Forests, urging immediate arrest of the accused and a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
Accused booked but still absconding
Forest officials have registered a case under the Karnataka Forest Act against Ayaz Ahmed (41), identified as the primary accused in the case. However, he remains absconding despite the seriousness of the offence.
According to the First Information Report (FIR), several species of trees were cut down, including Terminalia Arjuna, Java plum, Pongamia (Honge), Banyan, and Rain trees. Many of these trees were reportedly over 70 years old, making their loss ecologically significant.
Probe ordered into possible organised crime
Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) K Paramesha has ordered an inquiry into the incident, assigning Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Sumithra and Range Forest Officer (RFO) Nithin Kumar to investigate.
Officials suspect that the felling may not have been the work of a single individual. “Prima facie, it appears to be an organised act, as cutting down 46 fully grown trees in a short span would require coordinated effort,” the DCF stated.
The trees were felled on riverbank land classified as ‘Hole Karaabu’. Authorities have directed a land survey to determine whether neighbouring landowners were involved or if there was any attempt to encroach upon the land.
Investigators are also examining whether the trees were cut solely for timber sale or as part of a larger plan to develop a commercial project such as a private resort.
Environmental concerns raised
Activists have expressed deep concern over the ecological damage caused by the incident. Parashuramegowda, Secretary of Parisarakkaagi Naavu, stressed the need for a high-level probe.
“At a time when climate change and rising temperatures are major concerns, losing decades-old trees is a serious setback. A Special Investigation Team should be formed to identify all those involved,” he said.
Another activist, Ravi Bale, highlighted the broader ecological impact. “This is not just about trees. The entire riverbank ecosystem has been affected, including soil stability, birds, and other wildlife dependent on these trees,” he noted.
Call for stricter monitoring
Activists have urged the Forest Department to adopt stricter measures to prevent such incidents in the future. Suggestions include the use of technology-based surveillance systems to monitor vulnerable green zones and track suspicious activities.
They also called for stronger enforcement mechanisms to protect forest and riverbank areas, emphasising that such large-scale destruction should not be repeated anywhere in the district or state.
Conclusion
The illegal felling of 46 trees along the Kapila riverbank has triggered widespread outrage in Mysuru, with environmental groups demanding accountability and urgent action. As the accused remains at large, the planned protest is expected to intensify pressure on authorities to act swiftly and ensure justice while safeguarding the region’s ecological balance.