Drop safari project in Bhimgad: Activists

Belagavi: The activists of the Wildlife and Environmental Development Forum (Vanyajeevi Parisara Abhivruddhi Vedike- APAV) submitted a memorandum to the regional commissioner and deputy conservator of forests (DCF) on Thursday. They demanded that the govt give up the proposed Wildlife Safari project in Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary in Khanapur taluk. The activists said tourism minister HK Patil announced that an 18km stretch in Bhimgad would be opened for safari. They said it is harmful to wildlife and the environment. The state govt's plan to promote tourism is also unscientific, they claimed. Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area and is home to several wildlife species, including tigers. So human entry is restricted. More than 3,000 people have been living in 13 villages in the sanctuary area for several years. These villages lack road connectivity, school education, health, and other facilities. The forest dwellers have been facing severe problems due to the lack of basic facilities. After the central govt declared Bhimgad a wildlife sanctuary in 2011, there was a ban on any development work in this area. However, the state govt decided to plan a safari here, and the forest department gave permission, which is surprising, the memorandum stated. If this unscientific safari is implemented, basic facilities will have to be provided for tourism. Trees will have to be cut down. This will directly affect the environment. Wildlife will face problems. The state govt should withdraw its decision. Otherwise, a fierce struggle will be inevitable, they warned. APAV president Suresh Urabinahatti, vice president Shrishail Mathad, secretary DN Misale, treasurer Jagadish Mathad, GI Dalvai, SG Kalyani, former mayor NB Nirvani, Vilas Kerur, and farmer leader Sidagouda Modagi were present. Photo: Activists of the Wildlife and Environmental Development Forum submit a memorandum to regional commissioner SB Shettennavar on Thursday