Farmers and environmental activists in Shivamogga are opposing the proposal to widen the Bengaluru-Honnavar highway, citing concerns about the cutting of thousands of trees and destabilization of the hills. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has proposed a new alignment for part of the highway between Gilalagundi in Sagar taluk and Kone Hosur in Shivamogga taluk.
“The new alignment passes through the Kolli Bachhalu-Karadibetta Forest. Farmers have been issued notices for land acquisition,” said Anant Hegde Ashisara of the Vrukshalaksha Andolana Karnataka, after a meeting with farmers. The forest is home to elephants, tigers, bears, leopards, and other wildlife, and more than 500 acres of land would be destroyed by the new alignment.
Botanist Roopa Dharmma emphasized the importance of Ammanakere lake in ensuring water security for thousands of farmers. “The destruction of the Kolli Bachhalu Valley will cut off the water source. We are not opposed to widening the road. We demand that the existing alignment be widened,” Roopa said.
The opposition from the local community highlights the environmental and ecological concerns associated with the project. The activists and farmers are urging authorities to reconsider the proposed alignment and focus on widening the existing road to mitigate the environmental impact.