The State Budget’s approval for a cable car at Chamundi Hills in Mysuru has stoked a fresh debate with divergent views being aired by environmentalists and stakeholders in the tourism sector.
The city witnessed widespread opposition to the concept during 2005-07, as a section of citizens aired their misgivings over the proposed ropeway in view of the fragility of Chamundi Hills.
When the project was not pursued the issue was thought to have received a burial until it was revived by the Chief Minister who gave its approval in the budget presented on Friday.
R. Chandraprakash, president, Mysore Grahakara Parishat, told The Hindu that the ecology of Chamundi Hills has deteriorated in the last few years and the cable car project would have a negative impact on its environment. He said Chamundi Hill was not very steep and had good roads leading to the hill top, in addition to steps. Hence, there was no need for a cable car.
However, those involved in the tourism sector have welcomed the project. K.S. Nagapathi, director, Mahajana Tourism Development Institute, said regular visitors to the temple may not use a cable car but it would be an added attraction for tourists visiting Mysuru.
M. Rajendra, president, Karnataka Pradesh Hotel and Restaurants’ Association, aired similar views and welcomed the proposal. But Mr. Chandraprakash argued that there are different ways to promote tourism in Mysuru, including improving connectivity to places of tourist interest, conceiving better tour packages to cover different places in and around Mysuru, creating parking facilities, reducing vehicle tax, etc. “But all they have in mind is a cable car which will be a commercial venture and destroy the environment of Chamundi Hills,” said Mr. Chandraprakash.
Ms. Tanuja, an environmental activist said the need of the hour was reducing human-induced pressure on Chamundi Hills and the ropeway project would not only add to it, but erode the green cover and degrade the habitat.
A casual study of the flora and fauna of Chamundi Hills conducted a few years ago indicated that it was a treasure trove of biodiversity harbouring more than 225 flower plants and trees, at least 20 species of birds and 22 species of butterflies besides five species of animals. The need of the hour, says the environmentalist, is a buffer zone to protect Chamundi Hills.
