Mangaluru Forest Department Conducts Public Hearing on Tree Removal for Golf Course Development
The forest department in Mangaluru organized a public hearing to address growing concerns over the proposed axing of trees on approximately 1.5 acres of land. This land is slated for the construction of an academy and a reservoir within the Pilikula golf course area, sparking significant public debate and opposition.
Details of the Proposed Tree Felling
A total of 196 trees are earmarked for removal to make way for the new facilities. The affected species include a diverse range such as acasia, magilam, hebbalasu, uppalige, baine, baleendra pale, cashew, spathodea, chere, and cherry trees. This planned deforestation has prompted strong objections from local residents and environmental activists, who fear the ecological impact of such a large-scale tree loss.
Public Opposition and Environmental Concerns
Members of the National Environment Care Federation (NECF) were among the most vocal opponents at the hearing. They highlighted a previous incident where 375 trees were cut without proper permission a few years ago, questioning the legitimacy of the current process. One NECF representative argued that the land, which is part of the Pilikula Biological Park, should primarily benefit wildlife rather than being repurposed for human recreational activities like golf.
Participants at the hearing suggested alternative measures, such as relocating the trees instead of cutting them down. They also demanded clarity on what steps would be taken to maintain ecological balance once the trees are removed, emphasizing the need for sustainable development practices.
Support for Development and Mitigation Efforts
On the other side of the debate, Kiran Shetty, a former member of the local Moodushedde gram panchayat, acknowledged the tourism benefits brought by the golf course. He proposed that if tree removal is unavoidable, the authorities should commit to planting more trees as a compensatory measure to offset the environmental loss.
Captain Manoj Kumar Shetty of the Pilikula golf course provided context for the development plans. He stated that the golf course currently holds an A grade nationally and meets international standards. To upgrade it to an A+ grade, establishing an academy is deemed essential. The proposed academy would include coaching facilities for 20 people, a dormitory accommodating 40 individuals, and a reservoir, all of which require the clearance of trees in the designated area.
Captain Shetty also noted the golf course's existing environmental efforts, mentioning that 8,500 trees, including 130 varieties of mango trees, have already been planted on the premises, with plans for further afforestation.
Official Response and Next Steps
ACF Mangaluru sub-division officer Shashikanth S Vibhute, who presided over the meeting, assured attendees that all public objections and submissions would be compiled. This report will be sent to the deputy forest conservation officer within a week for a final decision on the matter. Other officials present included Mangaluru range forest officer (RFO) Rajesh Baligar and golf course secretary Sudheer Shetty, indicating the involvement of multiple stakeholders in the decision-making process.
The outcome of this hearing could set a precedent for how development projects balance progress with environmental conservation in the region, making it a critical issue for local governance and ecological sustainability.
