The Karnataka government has stood firm against neighboring Goa’s proposal to carve out a power transmission line (Goa-Tamnar Transmission Project) through the pristine Western Ghats forest. Instead, it has directed the project executing agency to seek routes through non-forested areas.
The rejection comes amidst concerns over the potential environmental damage posed by the proposed route, which would have traversed through crucial forest habitats, including the Kali Tiger Reserve (KTR). The Goa-Tamnar Transmission Project Limited (GTTPL), aiming to illuminate parts of South Goa by harnessing power from Tamnar in Chhattisgarh, had sought Karnataka’s permission to divert a staggering 174.6 hectares of forest land for laying a 400 kV transmission line.
The proposal sparked outrage due to its potential impact on over 72,000 trees and the delicate ecological balance of the Western Ghats. Despite efforts by GTTPL to propose realignments to mitigate the damage, concerns remained regarding the irreversible ecological consequences.
The Karnataka Forest Department’s refusal to endorse the project reflects a broader commitment to environmental conservation and wildlife protection. The decision, backed by Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre, emphasizes the state’s dedication to safeguarding its natural heritage for future generations.
Wildlife conservationists have welcomed the government’s stance, viewing it as a crucial step towards preserving the invaluable biodiversity of the Belagavi and Uttara Kannada districts. Giridhar Kulkarni, a prominent conservationist, lauded the decision as a significant victory for wildlife conservation efforts in the region and expressed gratitude towards Minister Khandre for prioritizing the protection of the Western Ghats against unsustainable development practices.
This is the best decision made by Karnataka government to save our forest and keep the balance of our ecological system.