I have written time and again about the dangers of unplanned and questionable projects coming up in Kodagu. Yet, it seems our warnings fall on deaf ears.
The latest proposal for a mini Airport in this fragile district is yet another example of how skewed development is being planned callously without thought, sensitivity or lack of priorities. What sense does it make to plan for an airport when all other infrastructure is in an abysmal condition?
We are lectured that’s this Airport will “open up” Kodagu to the world. To what avail – dare I ask? We are already besieged by uncontrolled tourism well beyond what the District can sustain. Our natural resources are woefully inadequate as demonstrated by drought like conditions in merely a week after there is a break from rains.
As if this was not enough, scores of new large resorts are mushrooming (how they get clearances is a mystery) resulting in the levelling of hills, large scale trees being felled, to water resources being redirected – yet another devastating wound on a land already scarred by reckless commerce exploitation.
The silence of our forests is being replaced by the noise of bulldozers and now perhaps, by Aircrafts!
Let us face it – Development without clear purpose leads to destruction. When Nature pays the price, there is no true progress. Kodagu is not unproductive land awaiting construction – it is a living, breathing ecosystem that sustains us. Every forest patch shelters the source of the sacred waters of our rivers. Every sacred grove holds centuries of faith. Every hill tells a story of harmony between man and nature.
Yet, those in power seem blind to this truth. It is truly sad that our elected representatives chase grand projects that only flatter the eye to deceive the betterment of the people who have actually been living here from time immemorial – peacefully and in relative comfort. Roads remain broken, hospitals under-equipped and schools forgotten while funds and attention are diverted to projects that serve neither necessity nor the common good. When will our leaders realise that real development begins with basic needs, not luxury ventures?
If we do not act as responsible custodians of the land that we have inherited and exploit/destroy Nature, history has proven, with many examples the total annihilation of the landscape with the fury of floods, landslides, drought and extreme climate change.
True, this is not the need of the hour, try to put up good roads and stop converting coffee estates,paddy fields and bring in a ordinance to stop outsiders buying land in Kodagu so that whatever land left will be in its original condition, people in Coorg don’t need airport they need to be left alone. Bring in E-Pass to control tourist inflow, it is pathetic to see Long traffic jams during weekends. If there is no proper planning and representation we will face lot of misery in the days to come.
Yet ,another article of concern by Mamatha Subbiah, highlighting the implications of proposal of mini AIRPORT in kodagu. Her well- reasoned views reflect deep concern for the districts fragile ecosystem and cultural balance Thoughtful writings like hers urge us to prioritize sustainable an mindful development. Brilliant journalism indeed!.
Mamatha’s writing clearly shows the pain in her heart as Kodagu undergoes rapid senseless development. Hope this writeup is seen by people who really matter in the corridors of power. Kudos again to Mamtha for voicing genuine concern to rapid unwanted destructive developmental projects in kodagu
Good straight from the shoulder article by Mamatha Subbaiah – her trademark style! Sadly, there appears to be a lack of holistic planning that identifies on a prioritised, what is good for Kodagu. People who have lived here for generations ought to be consulted as politicians have different priorities and administrators are generally on short term postings.
The current DC means well and puts development plans on the right track. implementation can only follow good planning – not the other way round. An airport is wholly unnecessary – a worse idea than the glass bridge at Raja Seat.
Appreciation to Mamatha Subbaiah for voicing genuine concern against the upcoming mini Airport project in Kodagu.Her article reflects deep love for the land and environment reminding us to think beyond development and consider the long term impact Kodagu’s fragile ecosystem. So thoughtful and timely.
Absolutely right. This is like pennywise pound foolish…what is the point of having an Airport for such a small district damaging the ecosystem..added to that too many resorts coming up in every nook and corner…Such a pathetic governance..Unfortunately we never learn from our mistakes.. Hope better sense prevails.