Malvanda Aravind Kuttappa, President of the Kodagu District Landowners and Timber Traders Association, alleged at a press conference in Madikeri that government funds allocated for preventing wildlife encroachment are not being utilized properly, leading to increased wildlife attacks. He also suspected corruption within the forest department.
He criticized the ineffective implementation of projects like elephant trenches, solar fences, railway barricades, and fruit tree plantations. Kuttappa demanded a thorough investigation and accountability.
Growers are frustrated by delays in processing tree-cutting applications for personal use, with some pending for over three years. Kuttappa also raised concerns over limited office hours at forest offices and called for extended public access.
He noted that despite monsoon-related restrictions, heavy vehicle movement continues unchecked after midnight, and urged that transportation of felled trees be allowed year-round.
K.A. Adam, Vice President of the Association, added that the Chief Conservator of Forests post in Kodagu remains vacant, and infrequent visits by temporary officers have delayed the issuance of NOCs and payments for auctioned trees. Other members present included General Secretary T.A. Manoranjan, Legal Spokesperson C.B. Poovanna, Social Media Spokesperson K.K. Hansa, and C.M. Yahya.
