“Though Kodagu has all the facilities to support the usage of alternate energy, some people in the name of environment protection are not allowing the development of such facilities,” alleged MLA K G Boppaiah.

Addressing the gathering after inaugurating the ‘Rajiv Gandhi Akshay Urjah’ celebration organised by Bhagamandala Gowda Samaj on Wednesday, Mr Boppaiah said that in present day scenario where the demand for power is increasing day by day, the need to support mini hydal power projects is inevitable.

“Though small waterfalls are found in large numbers in the district, some people, in the name of environmental conservation are acting as an impediment for development in this sector. Stree Shakti Groups and Self help Groups must emphasise on the need to the project so that natural resources are utilised efficiently,” he added.

He said that the fact is that the nation can develop only through the development of the villages. Since the funds released for the development of the villages are being misused, the targeted development is not happening.

Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Commissioner K R Niranjan said that the awareness on alternate energy usage must not remain symbolic but it must be adopted in daily lives.

Resourceperson, Agricultural Sciences Centre Scientist Dr B Narayanaswamy said that if the world continues to bank on non renewable energy, in next 30 years world will run out of energy resources.

Zilla Panchayat President Dheergakeshi Shivanna presided over the programme, Zilla Panchayat Vice-President Rajamma Rudraiah and others were present.