Set up fund for Western Ghats

BANGALORE: The Western Ghats Task Force, chaired by Anant Hegde Ashisara has recommended the state government to set up a Western Ghats Conservation Fund (Sahyadri Samrakshana Nidhi) to protect the rich diversity of the region.Ashisara, prior to submitting a report on conservation and sustainable development of the Western Ghats to Forest Minister C P Yogeshwar here on Wednesday, said that large funds are needed to conserve its biodiversity. Stating that the fund could be established on the lines of the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund, he added: “The fund can be used to meet conservation related expenses of the region.” He added that the task force has suggested that the government look for funding from organisations and individuals willing to support the scheme.The WGTF has also suggested that the state government come out with a long-term river protection policy with rational and scientific guidelines for land use in major river systems.Inquiry into forest fires soon: YogeshwarYogeshwar ordered an inquiry into the wildfire that ravaged large tracts of Nagarahole and Shettyhalli Wildlife Sanctuaries recently.Speaking after receiving a report from the WGTF, he averred that an inquiry would reveal the truth. He called upon the forest department to address grievances behind the incident. Principal Secretary of Department of Forests and Environment Kaushik Mukherjee said that fire in the two forests was brought under control after hectic efforts. He added that satellite imagery will be introduced to prevent such incidents in the future.He called for cooperation from district administration during such situations.