The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) is set to hold a public hearing on August 2 to decide the fate of 60.7 hectares of forest in the Ramandurga area of Sandur, Ballari district.
A sample study for the Environment Impact Assessment in the forest’s buffer zone identified 310 species of flora, including 128 tree species, 30 climbers, 34 shrubs, and 118 herbs. Additionally, primary and secondary data revealed 63 fauna species in the buffer zone.
The tree density in the core area was estimated at 747 trees per hectare, and over 1,000 per hectare in the buffer area. Based on core area density, the total number of trees is estimated to exceed 45,000, though the Range Forest Officer estimates around 29,400 trees.
The Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) aims to extract iron ore from the forest, estimating a total mineral reserve of 35.46 lakh tonnes and a revenue of Rs 531 crore after royalties, taxes, and cess. The report notes that 33.56 hectares of the total 60.70 hectares will remain untouched. Mining activities will occur on 9.9 hectares, with 5.18 hectares designated for crushing, screening, and mineral storage. SAIL also plans to develop a green belt on 2.24 hectares.
Aladahalli emphasized the importance of preserving natural forests to mitigate climate change impacts, stating that development should focus on already cleared lands rather than pristine forest areas.