Mangaluru Public Hearing Emphasizes Ecological Balance in NH-66 Service Road Project
In Mangaluru, a public hearing was convened to discuss the National Highway Authority of India's (NHAI) request for tree felling to facilitate the construction of a service road along NH-66 between Kolya and Kotekar in Ullal taluk. Participants at the hearing strongly emphasized that authorities must maintain ecological balance by increasing green cover while undertaking the development work.
Forest Department Conducts Hearing Following NHAI Proposal
The forest department held the public hearing on Monday after receiving a proposal from NHAI seeking permission to fell trees for constructing a service road and drain on a 700-meter stretch of the national highway. Mangaluru Range Forest Officer (RFO) Rajesh Baligar reported that officials have counted 120 trees on this stretch. An order on the actual number of trees to be felled will be issued after considering public objections. As per the Karnataka Tree Preservation Act, 1976, a public hearing is mandatory if more than 50 trees are to be felled for any project.
Compensation Planting and Tree Species Details
Baligar stated that NHAI will fund the planting of 10 saplings for every tree felled, aiming to mitigate environmental impact. The identified trees include a mix of exotic and native species. Exotic species such as Avalanda, Peltophorum, and Deodara are among those marked, along with native trees like Badam, Kadamba, mango, and teak. This diversity highlights the ecological significance of the area.
NHAI's Rationale for Service Road Construction
Ashika KJ, a horticulture expert with NHAI, explained that the authority is constructing a service road along NH-66 between Kolya and Kotekar, which is designated as a black spot for accidents. A 7.5-meter-wide service road will be built to prevent local vehicles from abruptly entering the national highway, enhancing safety. The work is scheduled for completion before the monsoon season to avoid disruptions.
Community and Official Perspectives on Development and Nature
Kotekar town panchayat president Divya S Shetty noted that the trees slated for felling were planted by the forest department along the highway a decade ago. She urged the department to ensure that future saplings are not felled during road development works, advocating for a balance between development and nature. She suggested planting saplings on vacant government land to sustain green cover.
Someshwara TMC vice-president Ravishankar acknowledged the necessity of a service road for public convenience but stressed that NHAI and the forest department should plant more saplings to maintain ecological balance. Similarly, Talapady gram panchayat former president Suresh Alva called for extending the service road to cover NH-66 between Kumpala bypass and Thokkottu overbridge.
Compensation Planting Plans and Future Steps
ACF Mangaluru sub-division officer Shashikanth S Vibhute outlined plans for compensation planting, stating that saplings will be planted on available land, including college and university premises, shores of Someshwara beach, and other open spaces. This initiative aims to offset the loss of trees and promote environmental sustainability.
The public hearing underscored a collective call for responsible development, with participants insisting on robust measures to enhance green cover and ensure ecological harmony alongside infrastructure progress.
