Fresh Water Diversion Allegations Surface in Bhadra Tiger Reserve Amid Resort Scrutiny
New allegations of illegal water diversion have emerged in Karnataka's Bhadra Tiger Reserve (BTR), adding to existing environmental concerns as a resort project in its eco-sensitive zone remains under official investigation for construction violations.
Background: Resort Project Under Scrutiny
In March, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change ordered an investigation into a resort project within the protected eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) limits of BTR over alleged illegal construction activities. This probe is ongoing, with authorities examining potential violations of environmental regulations.
Wildlife Watchdog Alleges Water Theft Racket
Against this backdrop, Wild Cat-C, a prominent wildlife conservation watchdog, has raised serious allegations about a water-theft racket operating in the Tanigebailu wildlife range of BTR. The organization claims that forest streams and backwaters are being systematically diverted through illegal pipe connections, potentially threatening the reserve's delicate aquatic ecosystems.
Environmentalists Point to Buffer Zone Reduction Bill
Environmental activists have connected these developments to the state government's August 2025 Buffer Zone Reduction Bill, which was originally intended to ease restrictions for public utilities. Conservationists argue that this legislation has inadvertently created space for unauthorized private activities within protected areas, with administrative apathy allowing such violations to proliferate.
Specific Allegations from Conservationists
Prominent conservationists DV Girish and S Girija Shankar have provided detailed accounts of the alleged violations:
- A large storage tank has been constructed approximately one kilometer from the Virupaksha Kanu anti-poaching camp
- This structure is reportedly being used to divert water for agricultural purposes using generators
- Trees and bamboo clumps were allegedly cut down to facilitate these activities
- Small roads have been carved inside the sanctuary to enable movement of labor and equipment
Official Response and Criticism
Pulkit Meena, field director of BTR, confirmed that officials have been dispatched for inspection following complaints about the water diversion allegations. However, forest officials have faced criticism for what environmentalists describe as a lack of urgency in addressing these concerns.
Critics have pointed out that similar incidents reported in the buffer zone approximately one month ago were dismissed by officials as routine human activity, raising questions about the consistency and effectiveness of enforcement measures.
Appeal for Ministerial Intervention
Citing both the water-diversion allegations and ongoing concerns about the ESZ resort project, environmentalists have appealed directly to Minister Eshwar B Khandre to intervene in the situation. They are calling for accountability among potentially complicit forest staff and warning against further damage to Bhadra's natural resources, which include critical habitats for tigers and other endangered species.
The combination of these allegations represents a significant challenge for conservation efforts in one of Karnataka's most important protected areas, with implications for both wildlife protection and environmental governance in the region.
