Construction of mansion near sanctuary draws flak

A massive mansion constructed close to Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS) has drawn flak from conservationists even as the Forest Department is planning to issue a notice to the owner.

The structure has come up illegally within 100 meters of the eco-sensitive zone. Ramesh Kumar, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Kollegal, said the owner had not sought permission for conversion of the agricultural land for non-agricultural purposes.

“The site falls within the ESZ of the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary and the norms dictate that no permanent structure can be put up there nor can the land use pattern be changed. Permission is issued only for construction of properties for self-occupation and not commercial use. But the owner failed to seek any kind of permission from us though he claims that it was for self-occupation,” Mr. Ramesh Kumar said.

The site is in the Mattipura beat of Hanur range of the sanctuary and is very close to Lingammanakere. A spot inspection will be conducted this week, officials said.

CWS, a critical wildlife habitat, is part of the Mysore Elephant Reserve under Project Elephant. It connects to BRT Tiger Reserve, Malai Mahadeshwara Wildlife Sanctuary and the Edyarahalli Reserved Forests, besides linking with Bannerghatta National Park as well. The sanctuary is home to large mammals including the tiger, leopard, wild dogs, striped hyena, sloth bear, and elephant, besides prey animals like the chital sambhar.

Conservationists expressed suspicion that the mansion could be turned into a resort. And even if it was for residential purposes, permission was not sought and hence, it is a violation of the ESZ guidelines, they said.

Officials say the owner did not seek permission even

for ‘self-occupation’ purposes