National Forest Martyrs Day was observed on Saturday by placing a wreath near the memorial in Aranya Bhavana in Madikeri.
National Forest Martyrs Day was observed at Aranya Bhavana in Madikeri; the sacrifices of forest staff were remembered.
September 11 is observed as National Forest Martyrs Day.
As many as 363 people from the Bishnoi community opposed the felling of trees in the Khejarli region. The trees were felled for a new palace to be built for Maharaja Abhay Singh of Jodhpur.
A total of 363 Bishnoi people were killed by the soldiers on September 11 in 1730. The Central Government, considering the sacrifice of the Bishnoi community, declared them as martyrs and announced September 11 as National Forest Martyrs Day.
Four martyrs from the district were remembered on the occasion.
Officials said that the forest personnel sacrifice their lives while safeguarding forest and wild animals. There is a need to conserve natural resources and wild animals for future generations.
Kodagu Circle Conservator of Forest Takhat Singh Ranawat, Madikeri DCF A T Poovaiah and others were present.
source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> India> Karnataka / by DHNS / September 12th, 2021
Kechamada Uthapa and his daughter Pooja taking me on a tour of his paddy land.Mrs Uthappa in their home in Kutta, Coorg.
Two weeks before the devastating rainfall that destroyed large parts of Coorg, I had the privilege of spending a few days with Mr Kechamada Uthappa, and his family. Mr Uthappa, who lives in the Kutta region of Coorg, is one of the few planters who still grows paddy. A little known fact is that paddy is the traditional crop of Coorg and not coffee, that it is now famous for.
After an interesting conversation with his daughter Pooja, an environmental engineer, I learned that paddy cultivation actually helps with rejuvenating the river. So I made way up to Coorg to see this for myself. While I did learn about how this happens, it was the warmth from Mr Uthappa, with his wry sense of Kodava humour, incredible energy at 67, infinite patience in answering my questions, his wife who gently guides the whole household and his daughter, who is a true a daughter of the soil, gave me an incredibly real and fulfilling experience in this ‘digital world’, it honestly made me happy.
After meeting them, I have come to believe that, If geography is destiny, then the people of Coorg are the guardians of River Cauvery.
Paddy plantation Women who work in the fields and estate, totally impressive.Women who work in the fields and estate, totally impressive.
In the old days the land was seen as a boon from the Goddess Cauvery and the land belonged to her. They celebrated the river and did everything in their power to care for her. To them it was ‘Cauverammas Bhoomi’.
‘Naati Pani’or paddy cultivation is what deeply connected the people of Coorg to their land and River Cauvery. It was also the most exciting time of the year, with every one coming together, it was almost like a celebration of the river itself. Owners used to plough the land themselves and shared a close relationship with the workers. Everyone would sing songs of the Cauvery to make their work light. They valued the river because she provided for them. They worked hard for their food and rice was a staple in their diets – think akki ottis and kadambuttus. Rice is not something they ordered online, unlike our generation who have a very transactional relationship with food.
Workers planting PaddyStream going back into the Lakshman Tirtha
‘Naati pani’ requires a lot of work and patience. Infact, Mr Uthappa says that it requires ‘Aar-Ambu’ or 6 arrows – fertile land, cattle, workers, rain, seeds and implements. The relationship with ‘Naati’ is also very intrinsic with water – The rain feeds the fields and the fields feed the river and recharge the ground water. Most planters today have even built large tanks to harvest rain water.
The land is divided into multiple fields and work begins in the cold wet monsoons and ends six months later. Mr Uthappa remembers how his grand mother would wake them up at 4 am to begin paddy work in the fields – she would ensure there was enough food and drink for everyone including the labourers.
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The paddy land is usually dived into Baleya theva – the biggest field, the Yaka – the sowing field which was slightly elevated so that it could retain water and was always situated closest to the stream, Chali or the central field allowed for the flow of water and Podup which is clay soil that has spring like properties and the Pada butta bel or fallow land.
Each of these fields is fed by rain water and controlled by shallow streams which is then fed back into the river. Mr Uthappas fields feed back into the Lakshman tirtha, a tributary of the Cauvery. Most of the knowledge and traditions and even geographical understanding on what should be grown is passed down orally and Mr Uthappa is hopeful that today, even though most of them don’t encourage their children to work in the fields there will be a time when everyone will come back to their roots.
The end of ‘Naati pani’ is celebrated with Kail-Podh. In keeping with their martial traditions all the implements would be polished, decorated with the ‘Thok-poo’ (which is now available only in the ‘Devara Kadus’ or Sacred forest groves maintained by each village). It was also a time where they could enjoy a break from their hard labour of ‘Naati pani’ and food, song and folk dancing would be indulged in.
Unfortunately, today most of the paddy fields are being left fallow or being converted into ‘holiday home sites’, reducing the ground water levels, changing the culture and even the food habits. The koile meen (fish commonly found in paddy fields), local rice varieties like Doddi and Boliya are fast disappearing. Reality is that rice is now being bought by the Karnataka government from Andhra Pradesh (where incidentally I am from).
It hit home when Mr Uthappa, told me of a kodava saying, “if you want to ruin a man you don’t need black magic, all you have to do is ask him to replace paddy for coffee or other crops and the land will run dry.” It makes you think if you would still be able to relish your cup of ‘bella coffee’ if there was no paddy planted in Coorg?
So as you celebrate Kail-Podh this year with Pandhi curry and Kadambuttus, or have ever visited Coorg and enjoyed her hospitality, remember that you are the guardian of River Cauvery and send out a special thought to all that she has provided.
Follow our series about the #CultureOfWater @SaveRiverCauvery on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
source: http://www.medium.com / Medium.com / Home / by Rohita R Madappa / September 02nd, 2018
Growers of coffee and pepper, the key commercial crops in the district, may land in trouble, if the situation continues.
People and street vendors use umbrellas to protect themselves from the scorching sun in Madikeri, an unusual scene in August. Credit: DH Photo
In monsoon every year, Kodagu is among the districts to receive the highest rainfall in the state. But this year, except for a few days in July, the rains have played hide and seek here.
The situation is best captured in the maximum temperature of 30º Celsius recorded in Kodagu district on August 11, creating panic among people, especially agriculturists.
Usually, August is a wet month for the district. The rains bring down the temperature to less than 25º Celsius. However, this time, the rains are conspicuous by their absence, pushing up the mercury levels. The 30º Celsius recorded in August this year is the highest in the last five years.
It is common sight for people to sport umbrellas for protection when the skies open up. But umbrellas are out for an unusual reason in the district these days, protection from the hot sun.
Coffee & pepper
It is now common talk in the district that growers of coffee and pepper, the key commercial crops in the district, may land in trouble, if the situation continues. There has been no rain in the first 15 days of August. This month, there is a 81% shortage of rains.
Instead of the normal of 31 cm rain, there was only 5 cm rain. In the current monsoon, the district is facing a 42% deficit in rainfall.
Coffee grower Harish Madappa from Srimangala said the Lakshmanateertha river was not even half full.
Drinking water
In previous years, there would usually be floods in the river. The situation is so dreary this time that there could even be a shortage for drinking water, he said.
Agriculture department joint director Shabana M Sheikh said that only 40% transplantation of paddy has been undertaken in the district this year. The crops will be affected, if there are no rains in the near future, she said. Krishi Vigyan Kendra weather expert Chengappa said the monsoon clouds are weak as of now. There is no possibility of heavy rain in the next five days, he said.
Special prayers
The Akhila Kodava Samaja has planned to offer special prayers at the Padi Iggutappa temple on August 17 for rains. The Samaja’s youth wing president Chammatira Pravin Uttappa said this was the first time he had seen prayers being offered for rains in the month of August.
source: http://www.deccanherald.com / Deccan Herald / Home> India> Karnataka / by K S Girish / August 17th, 2023
A PIL has been filed regarding this and a court case is going on. Besides, the Harangi Project Division officials have now sought a ground report from scientist
Image used for representational purposes only. (Photo | Wikimedia Commons)
Madikeri :
Water mismanagement in Harangi Reservoir in Kodagu has been allegedly causing frequent flooding in the low-lying areas of Kushalnagar and the sudden water release in 2018 was blamed for triggering landslides in the catchment areas.
A PIL has been filed regarding this and a court case is going on. Besides, the Harangi Project Division officials have now sought a ground report from scientists. “A team of scientists from the National Institution of Hydrology was invited to submit a ground report on Harangi Reservoir and the Cauvery Catchment areas.
With the court case underway, we have been asked to submit a report of the ground situation,” confirmed KK Raghupati, Superintending Engineer of Harangi Project Circle. The scientists visited the reservoir and the catchment areas across Hattiholey, Nandi Motte, and Thanthipala regions near Harangi and tested the soil and groundwater levels.
As Puttaswamy confirmed, the scientists had also visited the regions in June last year. “Last year, the soil content and groundwater level were checked before the monsoon. Now, the same reports are collected during monsoon. An expert report will be readied in a week or two to be submitted to the Minor Irrigation Department and the court,” said Puttaswamy.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Pragna GR / Express News Service / August 09th, 2023
Coorg, known as the Scotland of India, experiences a surge in tourism post-monsoon due to heavy rainfall. The Chiklihole Dam, famous for its half-moon shape and serene water flow, attracts thousands of tourists. Accessible from Madikeri, tourists can enjoy the beauty of Coorg’s waterfalls like Abbifalls and Mallalli Falls.
The Scotland of India has been blooming with tourists, with a surge in rainfall. Coorg sees a spike in tourism, post the monsoon season begins. With a hefty rainfall, the city has been spiking with tourism. The CHiklihole dam in the Kushalnagara of Coorg district has raised to fame with its beautiful half-moon shape, tagging along with the name ‘mini-Niagara’.
Though a dam, the water flows along a half-moon shape in the dam and attracts visitors. Each and every tourist place in Coorg resides with silence and quietness. The water flow along the reservoir is very peaceful, besides the noise created by the tourists and the birds chirping along the dam.
The Chiklihole Dam fills up every monsoon, and the dam attracts thousands of tourists every year. Tourists from far away places come to see this beautiful water flow in the dam.
How to reach?
Chiklihole Dam is about 26km from the district place Madikeri. There are no bus facilities, however, one can travel to Suntikoppa in their own vehicle and later Book an auto or a jeep until the dam. This dam is constructed in the Meenukolli reserved forest and provides water to the villages of Kushalnagara and Piriyapattana.
The breeze along the bridge beside the dam will make you dance to the waves of the dam. Meanwhile, the dam fills up during monsoon and calls the visitors.
Tourists can also consider visiting Abbifalls, Abhyat Mangala Falls, Mallalli Falls and Iruppu Falls in the surrounding. Coorg always lives up to its name – Scotland of India, be it during the monsoon and summer.
Nestled in the state of Karnataka, India, Coorg is a captivating hill station often referred to as the “Scotland of India.” Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, lush coffee plantations, and enchanting waterfalls, Coorg attracts visitors from far and wide. In this article, we will delve into the alluring charm of Coorg and explore its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the myriad experiences it offers.
1. History and Overview of Coorg
Coorg, officially known as Kodagu, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It was ruled by several dynasties, including the Gangas, Kadambas, and Cholas, before coming under the influence of the Haleri Rajas in the 17th century. The region witnessed the valiant efforts of Kodava warriors in defending their land against external forces. Today, Coorg is a district in Karnataka and a popular tourist destination.
2. Coffee Plantations: The Essence of Coorg
Coorg is renowned for its vast expanses of coffee plantations that paint the landscape in vibrant green hues. The region’s cool climate and fertile soil create an ideal environment for coffee cultivation. Visitors can take guided tours through the plantations, witnessing the coffee-making process from bean to cup. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee fills the air, offering a delightful sensory experience.
3. Exploring Coorg’s Waterfalls
Coorg is blessed with numerous waterfalls that cascade down its verdant hills, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Abbey Falls, Iruppu Falls, and Mallalli Falls are among the most popular ones. Trekking through lush forests and hearing the soothing sound of gushing water is an unforgettable adventure. Visitors can also take a dip in the natural pools formed at the base of the waterfalls, refreshing both body and soul.
4. Wildlife and Nature Reserves in Coorg
Coorg is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The region boasts several wildlife sanctuaries and reserves, including the Nagarhole National Park and the Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary. These protected areas are home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and rare bird species. Embarking on a wildlife safari allows visitors to witness the wonders of Coorg’s natural biodiversity up close.
5. Trekking and Adventure Sports in Coorg
With its undulating landscapes and mist-covered hills, Coorg offers ample opportunities for trekking and adventure sports. Tadiandamol, the highest peak in Coorg, attracts avid trekkers seeking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Outdoor enthusiasts can also indulge in activities such as river rafting, zip-lining, and camping, adding an element of thrill and excitement to their Coorg experience.
6. Experiencing Coorg’s Rich Culture and Traditions
The Kodava people, the native inhabitants of Coorg, have a distinct culture and rich traditions. The region is known for its martial traditions, vivid costumes, and unique festivals. Visitors can witness traditional Kodava weddings, folk dances like the “Kodava Kunita,” and other cultural performances that provide insights into the local way of life. Immersing oneself in Coorg’s cultural heritage is a truly enriching experience.
7. Temples and Religious Sites in Coorg
Coorg is home to several ancient temples and religious sites that hold great historical and religious significance. The Omkareshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, blends Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, while the Talakaveri Temple marks the origin of the River Kaveri. These sacred sites attract pilgrims and devotees throughout the year, offering a serene and spiritual ambiance.
8. Indulging in Coorg’s Authentic Cuisine
The delectable cuisine of Coorg is a blend of Kodava, Mangalorean, and Kerala flavors. The traditional Kodava dishes, such as Pandi Curry (pork curry) and Kadambuttu (rice dumplings), are a culinary delight. Coorg is also famous for its flavorful coffee, honey, and spices. Visitors can savor the local delicacies at traditional homestays or cozy restaurants, tantalizing their taste buds with the essence of Coorg.
9. Coorg’s Festivals and Celebrations
Coorg is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations that showcase the region’s cultural vibrancy. The Kodava people celebrate the annual Kodava Hockey Festival, a unique sporting event blending tradition and modernity. The harvest festival of Puthari and the religious festival of Kailpodh are also celebrated with great enthusiasm. These festivities provide a glimpse into Coorg’s lively spirit and sense of community.
10. Accommodation Options in Coorg
Coorg offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s preferences. From luxurious resorts and heritage bungalows to budget-friendly homestays and eco-lodges, there is something for everyone. Staying amidst the coffee estates or near the waterfalls enhances the overall experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature and unwind in tranquility.
11. Best Time to Visit Coorg
Coorg’s weather remains pleasant throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from October to May. During this period, the temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, offering a comfortable climate for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season, from June to September, adds a touch of romance to Coorg, with lush greenery and rejuvenated waterfalls.
12. Transportation and Getting Around Coorg
Coorg is well-connected by road and can be reached via nearby cities such as Bangalore and Mangalore. The nearest airports are Mangalore International Airport and Kannur International Airport. To explore Coorg’s attractions, hiring a private cab or taking local buses are popular options. The well-maintained road network allows visitors to navigate the hilly terrain and enjoy the scenic beauty along the way.
13. Safety Tips for Travelers in Coorg
While Coorg is a relatively safe destination, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions while traveling. Some essential safety tips include carrying a first aid kit, staying hydrated, wearing appropriate footwear for treks, and respecting the local customs and traditions. It is also advisable to check weather conditions and road conditions before embarking on any outdoor activities.
14. Shopping in Coorg: Souvenirs and Local Products
Coorg offers a delightful shopping experience with a variety of souvenirs and local products. Visitors can purchase aromatic coffee beans, spices, homemade chocolates, and traditional Kodava jewelry as mementos of their Coorg trip. The local markets, such as the Madikeri Market and Kushalnagar Market, are bustling with activity and provide an opportunity to interact with local artisans and traders.
Coorg, with its breathtaking landscapes, coffee plantations, and cultural heritage, offers a unique getaway for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. Whether indulging in a hot cup of Coorg coffee, exploring hidden waterfalls, or immersing in the vibrant traditions, every moment spent in Coorg is a memorable experience. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to this enchanting hill station, where nature’s beauty knows no bounds.
source: http://www.english.newstracklive.com / News Track / Home> Lifestyle / by Sanskar Tiwari / July 19th, 2023
Helps Forest Officers effectively plan operationsand drive pachyderms back into jungle.
Amid the rise in the human-elephant conflict in some forested pockets of Kodagu along the Nagarahole Tiger Reserve, the Forest Department has deployed a hi-tech thermal drone to keep track of daytime and nocturnal movements of wild elephants inside forest ranges and human habitats.
The drone technology was first used in Nagarahole to control forest fires and now, there are three such drones there. However, a need was felt to acquire a thermal drone due to the increasing human-elephant conflict.
Sources said while managing the human-elephant conflict, the safety of elephants and also humans has been a major concern for the Forest Department and the wildlife activists as deaths of animals are being frequently reported from various parts of the district as they come into contact with live electricity wires.
Due to the need, one thermal drone was brought to Nagarahole in January this year at a cost of Rs. 25 lakh. Monitoring the movement of the elephants has always been a challenge for the Department amid several limitations.
“Now we have been using a thermal drone and it detects live objects through their body temperature and those get flashed on the computer screen. It gives us a proper count of a herd and the number of calves,” Nagarahole Tiger Reserve Director Harshakumar Chikkanaragund told Star of Mysore.
The drone can also be used to drive the elephant herd away from a potential danger area as its location can be pinpointed. The drones are not only helping the staff determine the herd composition and drive them in a desirable direction but also prevent casualties.
Heat signatures of living species
Unlike drones with normal cameras that rely on light signals to capture images, thermal drone cameras pick up heat signatures of living species in motion. This makes thermal drones ideal for deployment after sunset, complementing the use of normal drones during daylight hours.
“By accurately detecting herd movements, determining their composition and tracking elephant directions, objective decisions can be made for deploying elephant squads. Thermal drone cameras have become an invaluable asset for night-time operations. They enhance situational awareness, ensuring efficient management of wild elephant movements and mitigating potential conflicts,” Harshakumar added.
According to Deputy Range Forest Officer (DRFO) Yogeshwari Desai, who has been trained to use the thermal drone, the machine has a 2-km range and can fly 400 metres above the surface. It has a powerful thermal sensor and night vision ‘positive image’ technology cameras. It is convenient to use and the exact location can be ascertained. If one has to do physical combing even for a 2-km range, a lot of manpower and equipment is needed,” she explained.
Easy navigation inside woods
The camera on the drone operates based on the location information obtained via GPS, enabling easy navigation of the elephants’ whereabouts. Additionally, the drones produce minimal noise, allowing the staff to monitor animals such as elephants, tigers and other wildlife without causing any disturbance
During the night, the thermal drones conduct operations using radar, ensuring that local residents are not inconvenienced. Once the specific location of the elephants is identified, the information is sent to the Task Force and the teams proceed to drive the elephants back into the forest.
It also becomes easy to spot the origin of forest fire and extinguishers can be rushed to the place, she said. The drone has a backup of 40 minutes and after that, the battery must be charged. The drone has three batteries.
The team that has been trained to operate thermal drone at Nagarahole.
Trained team
Before the drone was deployed, a New Delhi-based team trained eight operators at Nagarahole. They are DRFO Jyothi Kumar and Forest Guard Sunil Nellebidu (Antharasanthe), DRFO B.B. Mahesh Kumar (D.B. Kuppe), DRFO Chethan Kumar Kolur (Nagarahole), DRFO Yogeshwari Desai (Anechowkur), DRFOs K.K. Arpitha and H.N. Madhuprasad (Hunsur) and Forest Guard Basavaraju (Veeranahosahalli).
The operators were trained for six days at Dammanakatte, Veeranahosahalli and Moorkal ranges that abut human habitats. The Nagarahole Director further said that they will seek aid from wildlife-related organisations, NGOs and firms to sponsor more such thermal drones for effective management of conflict zones.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Feature Articles, Top Stories /July 18th, 2023
Several farmlands in South Kodagu have been abandoned owing to bad weather conditions and the increased movement of wild elephants.
Madikeri:
Paddy cultivation in the district is receding compared to yesteryears as farming is yet to pick up pace this monsoon. Changing weather conditions, natural disasters and increased wildlife conflict are other factors affecting paddy cultivation. It is said that only 48 hectares of land have been cultivated with paddy.
Over six years ago, nearly 35,000 hectares of farmlands across Kodagu were cultivated with paddy crops. But, the extent of the cultivation has diminished over the years as the target for paddy cultivation has now been reduced to 30,500 hectares by the agriculture department.
“The increasing wildlife conflict can be seen as one of the reasons for the farmers to give up paddy cultivation in several farmlands in the district. Further, many farmers have also taken to the cultivation of horticulture crops. Increased conversion of farmlands to areca nut estates has reduced paddy cultivation,” opined Shabana Sheikh, the Joint Director of the Agriculture Department.
A total of 23180 hectares of farmland was cultivated with paddy achieving a target of 76% last year. Over 384 hectares suffered crop loss due to rainfall last year.
The farmers of South Kodagu have increasingly given up paddy cultivation. Out of the 14000 hectares of targeted cultivation, only 9960 hectares were cultivated for paddy last year. Several farmlands in South Kodagu have been abandoned owing to bad weather conditions and the increased movement of wild elephants.
With monsoons delayed in the region this year, the paddy transplantation work is yet to pick up pace in the district. In Madikeri taluk, only 40 hectares of farmlands have recorded paddy transplantation work to date this year. Meanwhile, eight hectares of farmland have witnessed paddy transplantation in Somwarpet taluk. Nevertheless, as per the data recorded by the department, no farmlands have yet been cultivated for paddy due to delayed rains across South Kodagu including in Virajpet and Ponnampet taluks.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> States> Karnataka / by Express News Service / July 11th, 2023
The Cauvery near Betri in Kodagu district brimming with water due to heavy rains on Thursday. | Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
All schools and anganwadis in Kodagu will remain closed on Friday as a precautionary measure in view of the incessant rains across the district.
A communique was issued by Deputy Commissioner of Kodagu Venkat Raja. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said monsoon was vigorous and active over south interior Karnataka with very heavy rainfall of 120 mm reported in Bhagamandala during the 24-hour period ending 8.30 a.m. on Thursday.
The IMD has forecast heavy rains at isolated places over Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, Hassan, and Kodagu district on July 7 and 8.
Though the monsoon progression into Kodagu has been slow, the last 72 hours has shown some traction with moderate to heavy rains in the Cauvery catchment areas.
The cumulative rainfall since the advent of South West Monsoon since June 1 till date is below normal in Kodagu (-79%), Mysuru (-40%), Mandya (-23%), Hassan (-63%), and Chamarajanagar (-32%).
But the 24-hour period ending at 8.30 a.m. on Thursday saw Kodagu registering 58.12 mm of rainfall and this has been the trend since the past few days shoring up hopes of monsoon gaining vigour.
Apart from Bhagamandala (120 mm), heavy rains were also recorded at Sampaje (98.5 mm), Shantalli (100 mm), Madikeri Kasaba (54.20 mm), Napoklu (76.40 mm), Virajpet (68.4 mm), Hudikeri (53.3 mm), Srimangala (59.4 mm), Ponnampet (50 mm), and Ammathi (50 mm). Rains have also lashed other places like Suntikoppa, Kushalnagar, and Kodlipet.
The inflow into the Harangi reservoir was at the rate of 1,557 cusecs and the inflow is expected to increase owing to the current spell of rains in the next few days.
However, the cumulative rainfall since the advent of south west monsoon from June 1 till date is below normal in Kodagu (-79%), Mysuru (-40%), Mandya (-23%), Hassan (-63%), and Chamarajanagar (-32%).
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> India> Karnataka / by The Hindu Bureau / July 06th, 2023
Bandadka village in Coorg, known as the Scotland of India, faces challenges during the rainy season. Lack of road connectivity, proper bridge, electricity, and necessities affect villagers. Despite requests, the authorities have not provided adequate facilities, putting lives at risk.
Coorg is known as the Scotland of India. It shines with lush green vegetation, numerous waterfalls and rich culture. However, during the rainy season – the lack of basic necessities in the villages comes to the fore. One such unfortunate village is the Bandadka village of Sampaje taluk.
The village has no road connectivity to the city. Every rainfall disrupts their peace. Agony takes over as the flow of the river is alarming. The local panchayat has not yet been able to provide the village with a proper bridge.
‘Jeevanadi’ going dry: Coorg suffers in tourism
During rainfall, it is risky to cross the Payashwini river, which flows along NH275. If one wants to reach the village, crossing the river while holding on to a rope is mandatory.
The villager’s lack of electricity, road connectivity, and even the link bridge connecting them to the taluk is breathing its last. Surprisingly, even after 75 years of Independence, there are such villages in the state, especially in the tourist hotspot of Coorg, which lack the necessities.
The link bridge connecting the village and outskirts is ready to set sail if the people set their foot on it. There are five families in the village. Three of them comprise of old-aged people who are leading their lives in danger. The river flow during summer is very low, so the villagers’ daily life is not disrupted. Only during the rainy season do they undergo an adventurous river crossing every day. The Payashwini river, called the Chandragiri river, flows across Sullia, Jalsoor, Chengala and Kasargod.
Karnataka: Expect rainfall within 24 hours; ‘Orange’ alert for the coasts
The Panchayat used to construct a small bridge for the villagers once in 3-4 years. This year, the one constructed last time is on the verge of collapsing into the river.
For medication, villagers must walk 2.5 km through the wild forest, which elephants and leopards inhabit. They should walk through the small dam and reach NH 275 for transport. The villagers complain that even after requesting the ministers, Panchayat and District administration to provide them with the facilities, no one seems to care.
source: http://www.newsable.asianetnews.com / Asianet News Able / Home> English News> India News / by Vijaykumar Patil / July 04t, 2023
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