Eco warriors start online campaign against science centre in Univ of Mysore

A group of environmentalists have launched an online campaign demanding that the authorities identify an alternative place for the Regional Science Centre (RSC) after the construction for the proposed centre on the campus of University of Mysore (UoM) was stalled a few years ago.

The centre is sanctioned by the National Council of Science Museums, Ministry of Culture and Department of Science and Technology, at a cost of Rs 14.5 crore. The authorities had identified a seven-acre land on Kukkarahalli Lake premises but the construction works had to be stopped as it was opposed by people.

While six acres was identified to be developed for exhibiting models outdoors, based on the 'Hands on, Minds on' concept, one acre was identified for the building. Besides, the centre also planned to house museums, a science park and exhibition gallery which would deal with modern advancements in astronomy, biology and other scientific disciplines. Deputy Commissioner D Randeep said that he has brought the issue to the notice of the Secretary of the Environment department and has suggested that the area be reviewed again. K M Jayaramaiah of Kukkarahalli Lake Protection Committee said that the UoM has already identified a land near Premier Studio on Hunsur Road which was approved by the authorities. Jayaramaiah said the works were stopped a few years back and the centre will not come up in the area.

Venkatesh Kharidi, an environmentalist, has mentioned in the petition that the Science centre in Mysuru is a good move but its proximity to the Kukkrahalli Lake is a bad idea as the area is eco-sensitive. The construction of a building was opposed as it endangers the water body and disturbs birds which roost and nest here. Besides, it is an infringement of the rules governing the protection and conservation of tanks and lakes.

Speaking to DH, Kharidi said that if the centre is developed, the movement of humans in the area and other activities will pick up which will harm the eco-system, flora and fauna. A variety of birds from all over the world migrate to Kukkrahalli Lake for breeding and this should not be destroyed, he said. The centre should be developed on a land which does not cause any environmental hazards, he stressed.