Minister hints at law to curb pollution

Government to decide on legislation soon

He was speaking at a seminar on the protection and development of tanks at the Government First Grade College.

“Precious natural wealth and rare species of flora and fauna are already facing a threat.

The harm to the environment can be prevented through a law,” Udasi said.

Damage to environment

Illegal activities will damage the environment further and avarice can only bring about a disaster, the minister said. He attributed to the imbalance in the environment to unplanned development and loss of forests.

Sand mining was going on unabated, even as tanks were drying up and the water table was depleting, Udasi said. While 70 per cent of the Earth was water, only 0.07 per cent of the available water was potable, he said.

“If the scanty water sources are not protected, it may spell doom in the future. Everyone should become aware about environment protection,” the minister said.

“One is not able to find water even after drilling upto a depth of 2,000 feet for a borewell. Even when water is available, it is fluoridated. Drinking fluoridated water can have disastrous consequences, especially for children,” Udasi said.

People’s support

MLA K P Bachegowda, in his speech, said: “If the people do not wake up fast to the need to protect the environment, it may lead to disaster. The groundwater levels can be improved only by protecting the tanks.”

Everyone should join hands for efforts towards forestation. Students and youth can play a vital role by planting saplings, he added.

Dr T V Ramachandra, scientist at Indian Institute of Science, said the fears expressed 10 years ago about the Chikkaballapur region turning a desert were coming true.

Resource person of the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board, Ramesh Kumar, principal of the government first grade college, B V Krishnappa and others were present.