Karnataka Minister Eshwar Khandre warns against environmental damage from off-road events, seeks strict action
Bengaluru, August 13
Karnataka Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Eshwar B Khandre warned against environmental damage caused by off-road vehicle events and directed officials to ensure strict enforcement of rules.
In a letter dated August 12 addressed to the Chief Executive Officer of Zilla Panchayat, Chikkamagaluru, the Minister noted that he will flag off an Off-Road event in Nelamangala, Bengaluru Rural district, on August 15. A similar event is scheduled to be held in Kuduremukh, Chikkamagaluru district, on August 15 and 16.
Referring to Article 51A(g) of the Constitution, which lists protection and improvement of forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife as a fundamental duty of citizens, Khandre said preserving the natural environment was a collective responsibility.
He said vehicles participating in such events, particularly those fitted with modified tyres, can damage rural roads and fragile hill slopes.
Khandre further said such activities can disrupt the natural flow of rainwater from hills, affecting groundwater recharge in lakes, tanks and rivers, besides contributing to heat and air pollution and harming wildlife.
The Minister directed officials to ensure that vehicles participating in such events are not allowed to enter water bodies, including streams, lakes and canals, or damage rural roads.
He also warned that legal action would be initiated against those found polluting water sources or damaging public infrastructure.
The communication comes ahead of the Independence Day weekend, when several adventure and off-road events are scheduled to take place across Karnataka.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good move by Minister Khandre, but I wish this had come earlier. The real question is - will the local authorities actually enforce these rules? We've seen so many environmental regulations just remain on paper. I hope the strict action mentioned isn't just lip service. #SaveWesternGhats
I understand the concern about the environment, but isn't this a bit harsh on the off-road community? Many of these events bring tourism revenue to local villages and support small businesses. Maybe the solution is proper designated zones for such activities rather than banning them altogether. Balance is key.
This is so needed! Last summer, I was in Chikkamagaluru and saw the damage firsthand - deep tyre marks on the hills, disturbed streams, and scared wildlife. Our first duty is to protect nature for our children. Excellent that the Minister is invoking Article 51A(g) - every citizen's responsibility indeed!
Honestly speaking, while this is a good step, the mineral extraction and industrial activities have done far more damage to our Western Ghats than a weekend off-road event. It feels like easy to target adventure enthusiasts when the big polluters still operate without any consequences. Still, better late than never.
Glad to see this kind of environmental vigilance. As a visitor to Karnataka, I'm always struck by the natural beauty there - it deserves protection. Smart to place these restrictions before Independence Day weekend too, as it's a peak travel time for such events.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.