In the backdrop of the opposition of the localites to the proposed mica mining in Kalmakki near here, Koppa Deputy Conservator of Forests B P Ravi visited the site and inspected the situation.

Despite heavy rains, the DCF visited various places across the 90-acre land (survey number 85) and accumulated information from the people.

Ganigarike Virodhi Horata Samiti President Krishna Shetty, Secretary Shekhar Shetty, Gajendra Gorasukodige of Pashchima Ghatta Ulisi movement who accompanied the official, said the mining in the area would affect the water flow in Bedakki halla, a subsidiary of Bhadra river, while the houses of hundreds of labourers will be damaged.

The mining will also cost natural forests stretches and plantations. Four natural water sources and hundreds of acres of fertile land will go barren. Nellikere which supplies water to Kalasa town will be affected and the residents may face drinking water crisis too, they told the conservator.

Opposing the proposed mining, various political parties and organisations submitted separate  memorandums to Mr Ravi during a public contact meeting held at Kalmakki after the visits.

Addressing the localites, the DCF said he has accumulated all information regarding the prevailing situation in the area and will submit an objective report to the government soon. He assured the people not to anxious over the mining.

Zilla Panchayat Member B L Sandeep, members of Congress, BJP and Communist parties, representatives of self-help groups were present in the meeting. Later, they moved in a procession and sent a memorandum to the government through th deputy tahsildar.