Unscientific construction of national highway-66 in Uttara Kannada district has led to an increase in landslides due to development works. According to the Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority, the number of spots vulnerable to landslides has risen from 439 to 609 in 2021. Conservation biologist Keshava H Korse attributes this to unscientific projects like road construction, mining, and deforestation.
Korse warns that human-induced activities like deforestation and improper land use have made the region more landslide-prone. He criticizes the design and execution of national highways as a major contributor to the problem. Former chairman of Karnataka Biodiversity Board, Ananth Hegde Ashisara, highlights the district’s depletion of natural resources for development.
Korse suggests implementing a land use policy based on scientific studies, while officials stress the need for holistic action to prevent future disasters. The government plans to focus on landslide mitigation and climate-resilient infrastructure as part of a World Bank project. It is crucial to address these issues to protect Uttara Kannada’s ecosystem.
Published 18 July 2024, 01:26 IST
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