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Glass Bridge In Madikeri Faces Landslide Risk; Closed
Heavy rains pound Kodagu District; Dubare Elephant Camp shut as River Cauvery swells
Kushalnagar:
The second glass bridge in Kodagu district, installed just four months ago at Nandi Motte in Hebbatageri village on the road to Abbey Falls and Mandalapatti in Madikeri taluk, is now facing a precarious situation.
Following a landslide underneath the bridge on Wednesday night, the three supporting pillars of the bridge have become unstable, exacerbated by heavy rains which further destabilised the hilly terrain.
The first glass skywalk bridge in the district — ‘Pappy’s Bridge of Coorg’ — located at Udoth Motte near Madikeri on Bhagamandala Road, stands 78 feet tall, with a length of about 32 metres and a width of 2 metres.
Acting swiftly on reports of landslides threatening public safety, Kodagu Deputy Commissioner Venkat Raja this morning ordered Madikeri Tahsildar Praveen to immediately inspect the area. Following the Tahsildar’s visit, the DC ordered the gates of the glass bridge to be locked, preventing entry.
Hailed as the tallest glass bridge in South India, this facility also features a skywalk. The bridge stands 270 feet high, 180 feet long and 8 feet wide. It is constructed with 40 mm toughened glass and supported by pillars.
At any given time, over 30 visitors can stand and walk on the bridge, enjoying breathtaking views from 270 feet above the ground. Each visitor is permitted to stay on the bridge for 10 minutes, with a cost of Rs. 300 per person.
The location where the glass bridge stands is reportedly unsuitable for development and has been classified as a landslide-prone area and a Green Belt Zone. During the 2018 landslide, the ground in this area cracked, prompting the Kalakeri Nidugane Gram Panchayat to reject proposals for residential construction and borewell drilling.
Despite these concerns over ground stability, questions are now being raised regarding how permission was granted for the construction of this glass bridge. Area residents alleged that except for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Kalakeri Nidugane Gram Panchayat, no other permissions have been secured to build the bridge. Villagers also have filed a complaint with the Zilla Panchayat CEO.
Residents and concerned citizens have urged the District Administration to immediately review all pertinent documents and take necessary measures to avert any potential disaster. This issue has sparked significant public concern due to its implications for public safety and infrastructure stability in the region.
Pictures show the slanted supporting pillars after the landslide.
Dubare Elephant Camp closed
In response to heavy rainfall in the catchment areas of the River Cauvery, leading to a significant rise in water levels, the Dubare Elephant Camp near Nanjarayapatna, Kushalnagar Taluk, on the banks of the River has been closed to visitors. The Forest Department has implemented strict restrictions on entry to ensure the safety of all.
Visitors intending to reach Dubare must cross the swollen River, as there is no bridge available. However, due to the current water levels, boating services have been suspended until the situation improves.
Effective immediately, entry to the Dubare Elephant Camp has been prohibited. The Forest Department has arranged for transportation using four motor boats to ferry visitors across the River and to the camp. This service will resume once conditions permit safe access.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> News> Top Stories / June 28th, 2024
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Will always finds a way!
Crowdfunding helps revive govt school in Kodagu.
Madikeri :
Government schools might be losing importance in cities, but they are still the mainstay for educating children from rural areas. In Kodagu, a government school this year scored cent percent results in SSLC with the lone girl student from the school passing.
At a time when many government schools are shutting down because of lack of students, villagers at Neerugalale in the interiors of Somwarpet taluk in Kodagu district and alumni of the school got together to revive the Neerugalale Government Primary and High School . The villagers formed a committee along with the alumni association — Poorva Prathamika Shala Samithi (Pre-Primary School Committee) — and started the process.
What is inspiring and unique is that the villagers did not take any monetary assistance from the state government, and the entire project is the initiative of the villagers and alumni.
The school, which is 67 years old, started off as a primary school. The high school section was introduced only in 2007. While the institution had a considerable number of admissions in the past, it slowly started declining with parents preferring private schools. The majority of students come from backward classes, and this year, 114 were admitted in all, from grades 1 to 10.
“Government schools must not become places reserved only for the labour class. These schools can survive only when they are on a par with private schools,” said high school teacher Rathna Kumar, who has been working with the institution for the past 16 years.
The Neerugalale Government School, and the new LKG classroom at the school, after the renovation | Express
“The majority of students here are from the Jenu Kuruba tribe, who work as estate labourers. But the school management wanted to attract more admissions and that was when the Poorva Prathamika Shaala Samithi was formed. As the admissions were declining year on year, the villagers, along with the school alumni, and the School Development and Monitoring Committee (SDMC) formed the committee. We held a meeting in March last year, and had set plans that we looked forward to introducing at the institution,” explained Rathna Kumar.
The committee’s first plan was to introduce kindergarten and to renovate the old building on the campus, for which permission was sought from the taluk BEO. But the education department authorities informed the committee that there was not enough funds or manpower to enable new classes for students. The committee then decided not to take any monetary help from the government.
“The campus has an old building with five classrooms, which was renovated using crowdfund. The BEO was supportive of the committee, and we took it upon ourselves to introduce LKG in the school,” Kumar said. Members from the committee and SDMC approached donors before starting the renovation work, and collected around Rs 10 lakh from villagers and alumni.
The ‘Poorva Prathamika Shaala Samithi’ committee members
“The work began with replacing old roof-tiles and plastering the walls. In about four to five months, three of the five rooms were renovated. One was converted into a classroom with brand new furniture, the second room became a games room and the third into an office. There are two more rooms that will be renovated once more funds are arranged. We have also built a hi-tech toilet on the school campus,” Kumar said.
After the renovation, the committee members visited villagers and encouraged them to enrol their wards in the school. The committee’s efforts bore fruit and 15 students enrolled for LKG. “Next year, we will introduce UKG. And the year after, we hope to get the state’s permission to introduce English medium for grade 1,” Kumar said and added that currently, the SDMC is bearing teachers’ salaries.
While many teachers in interior villages wait to be transferred out, the efforts of the Neerugalele School management has set an example. “Teacher Rathna Kumar took special care in ensuring the school’s development. The villagers joined hands to save the school that has imparted education to thousands,” said school principal Esthela Silva.
source: http://www.newindianexpress.com / The New Indian Express / Home> Good News / by Pragna GR / June 23rd, 2024
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Assava: Elevating Coffee Culture from Farm to Cup
Assava ensures transparency and sustainability in its operations.
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of India, Assava emerges as a beacon of innovation and excellence in the realm of coffee. Born from a fortuitous encounter with the aromatic beans amidst the picturesque hills of Coorg during a Bangalore expedition, Assava embodies a profound passion for quality, sustainability, and a transformative vision for the coffee industry. Launched in 2022, Assava embarked on a journey to redefine the coffee experience, traversing the entire value supply chain from working hand-in-hand with the growers and estates to the discerning palates of customers.
Unlike traditional coffee enterprises, Assava transcends mere transactions, viewing cafes not just as beverage outlets but as havens of creativity and community. With a steadfast commitment to quality and a roaster of esteemed estates across Eastern Ghats & Western Ghats of India, Assava champions exceptional coffee experiences while fostering transparency and sustainability. Assava’s journey is a testament to its dedication to elevating coffee culture globally, embracing a future of expansion into new horizons while remaining deeply rooted in the rich traditions of Indian coffee heritage.
Bibhu Bahalia and Nihar Das, the visionary founders behind Assava, epitomize the epitome of passion, innovation, and dedication in the realm of coffee. Their journey began with a serendipitous encounter amidst the lush hills of Coorg, igniting a flame of inspiration that would propel them to redefine the coffee experience in India and beyond.
With an unwavering commitment to quality and sustainability, Bibhu and Nihar embarked on a mission to traverse the entire value supply chain of coffee, from the nurturing hands of growers to the discerning palates of customers. Theirs is not merely a business venture but a labor of love—a journey fueled by a profound appreciation for the craft of coffee and a transformative vision for the industry.
In the vibrant landscape of India, where every journey holds the promise of discovery, the inception of Assava, the brand under the company Holt & Myst Beverages Pvt. Ltd. was an unexpected revelation. Founded upon the serendipitous encounter with coffee amidst the verdant hills of Coorg during a Bangalore expedition, Assava was born out of a passion for quality, a commitment to sustainability, and a vision to revolutionize the coffee industry.
At the heart of Assava’s mission lies the desire to traverse the full value supply chain of the coffee business, from the nurturing hands of growers to the discerning palates of customers. With a fervent dedication to quality and recognition of the integral role played by coffee farms, Assava has emerged as a beacon of excellence in the realm of coffee aficionados and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.
Unlike conventional coffee enterprises, Assava stands apart with its unique approach to the coffee experience. Recognizing cafes as more than mere beverage outlets but as sanctuaries of solace and creativity, Assava endeavors to deliver exceptional coffee experiences that transcend the ordinary. Historically, the Indian coffee market has been dominated by exports, leaving a void in local chains and cafes for premium offerings. Assava seeks to disrupt this norm by championing exceptional coffee experiences within local communities.
The journey for Assava wouldn’t have been even without the constant support and quality output from it’s esteemed partner estates to the likes of Madhu Agro Plantation, Durga Madhaba Estate, SM Plantation and Curing partner Kalinga Desi Agro Foundation, the amalgamation of which led to the introduction of ‘The Eastern Trails’, I.e. Coffee from the Eastern Ghats of India during World Coffee Conference 2023, which was splendidly accepted by the national and global audience.
Central to Assava’s ethos is the concept of vertical integration, whereby value is added at every tier of the supply chain. By fostering collaboration with growers, estate owners, and other industry partners, Assava ensures transparency and sustainability in its operations. Moreover, by engaging directly with customers, Assava cultivates a sense of community and appreciation for the craft of coffee.
In its pursuit of sustainability, Assava employs innovative practices such as Electric roasting setups to minimize toxic emissions and recyclable packaging materials. Furthermore, Assava practices small batche roasting of coffee based on customer demand, ensuring freshness and minimizing waste.
Since its inception in December 2022, Assava has made significant strides in the coffee industry, participating in flagship events such as the World Coffee Conference and various food tech exhibitions. Collaborations with esteemed institutions like the Coffee Board of India which has been a major pillar of support in their journey, underscore Assava’s commitment to education and excellence in coffee.
Looking ahead, Assava envisions a future as a globally recognized oriental brand, with a presence spanning continents. While its current focus remains on Eastern India, particularly Odisha, West Bengal and the Northeast, Assava is poised for expansion into Southern India and beyond. With plans to venture into direct consumer markets in the coming months, Assava continues to uphold its commitment to quality, sustainability, and community.
For aspiring coffee entrepreneurs, Assava offers invaluable advice: cultivate a discerning palate, understand your audience, and embrace the journey of coffee exploration. Assava’s journey is not just about selling coffee—it’s about fostering a culture of appreciation and enjoyment, brewing life with each cup.
source: http://www.interviewtimes.net / Interview Times / Home / by Priyanshu Mohanty / March 22nd, 2024
A rising star among global tourist destinations-Coorg
Dr Geetha Kariappa is a professor of English, with 25+ years of experience, teaching graduate and post-graduate classes at the University of Mangalore and Mysore. Her passion lies in writing. As a full-time author, her 4 published novels and short stories with Kodagu and Kodava culture as the backdrop are the best sellers on Amazon.
Travel makes one modest. You see what tiny place you occupy in the world.
–Gustave Flaubert
Someone famously remarked, see the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories. Ask for no guarantees, ask for no security.
Kodagu or Coorg, often referred to as the ‘Scotland of India’, is the most searched travel destination of the year and secured the 7th position among the world’s top 10 tourist destinations. This recognition is a testimony to the district’s natural beauty, enchanting scenery, gushing waterfalls and virgin forests. It has numerous resorts and homestays and its 7th global ranking places it alongside renowned destinations like Sri Lanka, Goa, Bali, Thailand, Kashmir, Andaman and Nicobar, Italy, and Switzerland.
Coorg is immersed in a rich cultural heritage of tradition, hospitality and bravery. The small martial race of around 1.5 lakhs of Kodavas as the indigenous people of Kodagu are called, are a warrior clan known for their extraordinary martial abilities. As an ethnic minority worldwide, their attire reflects their ancestral lineage and culture dictates equality between men and women. Their three main festivals honour their ancestors and weapons; celebrate the bounty of paddy and worship the sacred river, Kaveri. In Coorg, every tradition, every dance, and every festival confirms their spirit of resilience.
Nestled amongst the Western Ghats, Coorg is well-known for its lush coffee plantations, verdant woodlands, rolling hills and unexplored terrains. It is a land of mystic and quaint gateways into mind and body relaxation.
Today, I touch upon hidden gems of natural beauty spots that can be charming tourist destinations for tourists willing to explore beyond the winding pathways, fruit orchards, quaint hills and river isles. Let’s uncover 5 unexplored gems that brand them the authentic Coorg.
Kabbe Biological Park sitting atop the pristine dense jungle of Kabbe Hills, situated 45 kms from Madikeri, the largest town of Coorg District, offers safari trips. You can soak in the echoes of birdsongs amidst tall bamboo strips, and sight spotted deer, gaurs and wary leopards. This little-known bio reserve forest makes an ideal nature watch for families beyond crowded reserves.
2. The hidden twin Waterfalls of Mallali near Somwarpet is another surreal delight as visitors come upon it surrounded by the verdant wilderness of lush forests. One can easily lose themselves in the tranquil spectacle as foamy currents of water swirl around the massive rocks in perfect symphony. You will be in sync with nature if you want to sit and meditate on the rocks.
3. The splendid Chelavara Falls located merely 20 kilometres uphill from Madikeri township brings one closer again to vibrant natural forces untouched by traveller footprints. As we ride uphill, maybe in a car or jeep, we encounter kingfishers and hear the distant boom of the waterfall. The majesty of a great swathe of white foamy waterfall hurtling down from lofty cliffs into an emerald jewel of a pool is a sight to behold. Early morning visits are an ideal time to connect with nature.
4. The Irpu falls within the sacred forests beside the Lakshmana Tirtha River near Kurchi village is a dreamlike place. It unites picturesque nature with eternal legend as Lord Lakshmana is supposed to have performed atonement here revealing the Irpu Falls. The visitors feel spiritually connected through worship and adoration that has spanned centuries. There arises a mystic aura surrounding the place.
5. The Chomakund Mountain trekking trail, located 45 kms from Madikeri township is another fresh discovery. It straddles the Western Ghats reaching 5500 feet for seasoned trekkers. It’s a concentrated 6-hour climb, and you may sight kingfishers or wild Gaurs. The comprehensive 360-degree scenery showcases rolling grasslands and the whole district unfolds before you. It’s like a new exploration beyond the scripted holiday.
Besides the coffee plantations, you may explore fragrant spice gardens of cardamom, pepper, and vanilla grown alongside coffee in estates in and around Madikeri. You will get a firsthand look at the entire process of coffee, from growth to roasting. It is practical to go on ‘Guided Tours’ where you can explore the greenery, and coffee shrubs, learn about different crops, and witness the fascinating coffee-roasting process.
Visit the ‘World Coffee Museum’, in ‘Mercara Gold Estate’ which showcases the journey of coffee, from its birth to the present day; both chronologically and geographically. After the tour, savour a cup of estate-fresh filter coffee.
Don’t forget to enjoy the taste of spices incorporated into the Coorgi cuisine in Coorg’s offbeat, charming ‘Homestays’ in secluded places amidst fruit orchards or rolling hills. Discover the slow simmering of culinary contents in earthen pots over family hearths to spread warmth into your heart. Sit out around the slow-burning bonfire listening to the cicadas sing into the starry night.
These experiences in charming hideaways offer glimpses into local life, authentic Kodava cuisine, and touching conversations with hosts, immersing you in the true spirit of Coorg. Enjoy your stay and come back again. As Roy M. Goodman states, ‘Happiness is a way of travel, not a destination. With age comes wisdom, with travel comes understanding.’
source: http://www.interviewtimes.net / Interview Times / Home> National> Trending / by Dr. Geetha Kariappa / June 23rd, 2024
