Mass Tree Felling in Belagavi's Badal Ankalagi Village Sparks Major Environmental Controversy
A significant environmental controversy has erupted in the Belagavi district of Karnataka, centering around the alleged illegal felling of thousands of trees on government land in Badal Ankalagi village. The incident, which has drawn sharp criticism from local farmers and environmental groups, involves a solar power project that has raised serious questions about ecological sensitivity and legal compliance.
Large-Scale Deforestation on Leased Government Land
According to reports, the large-scale clearing of greenery occurred on approximately 40 to 50 acres of government land that had been leased out for a solar power project. The hill area, which was densely covered with various tree species including valuable sandalwood, reportedly resembled a rich forest ecosystem before the clearing began. Residents have alleged that the tree felling operations continued for more than three weeks, with earthmovers and heavy machinery being used extensively to clear the land.
Farmers' Allegations and Political Connections
Farmer groups and local forums have raised serious concerns about the project, questioning the rationale behind permitting a solar power installation in what they describe as an ecologically sensitive area. The controversy has taken a political turn with allegations of involvement by local MLA and Women and Child Welfare Minister Laxmi Hebbalkar, who represents the Belagavi Rural assembly constituency where the village is located. Farmers have also pointed fingers at the local tahsildar, demanding strict action against all those responsible for the environmental damage.
Warning of protests has been issued by farmer groups if no appropriate action is taken to address their concerns and hold accountable those responsible for the alleged illegal activities.
Official Responses and Investigations
Despite MLA Hebbalkar's denial of any knowledge about the solar project or the mass tree felling, forest department officials have confirmed violations. Deputy Conservator of Forests Kranti NE issued a statement confirming illegal tree felling on government land bearing Survey No. 359 at Badal Ankalagi village.
"I directed the assistant conservator of forests to conduct an inspection and submit a detailed report. Further action will be initiated based on the findings," she stated, indicating that proper investigation procedures have been set in motion.
At the Vidhana Soudha, Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre responded to the growing controversy by announcing that he had instructed Chief Conservator of Forests Manjunath Chavan to submit a detailed report on the matter. "If violations are found, strict action will be taken in accordance with the law," Minister Khandre assured, highlighting the government's commitment to addressing environmental violations.
Legal Violations and Public Outcry
Local residents have pointed to specific legal violations under the Karnataka Preservation of Trees Act, 1976, which requires a public notification and invitation for objections for any project involving the felling of more than 50 trees. The scale of deforestation in Badal Ankalagi village far exceeds this threshold, leading to allegations of serious breach of environmental laws.
The situation has escalated with residents describing the entire exercise as a "scam" involving public representatives and officials from both the forest and revenue departments. This characterization reflects the depth of public distrust and the serious nature of the allegations being made against those involved in the project approval and implementation process.
The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between development projects and environmental conservation in sensitive ecological areas, raising important questions about proper procedures, transparency, and accountability in land use decisions affecting natural resources.
