Forest loss in Karnataka’s Western Ghats region alarming: Report

The recent India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023 has raised serious concerns about forest loss in Karnataka's Western Ghats region. Severe Degradation: Four out of the ten Western Ghats districts in Karnataka have experienced significant forest cover loss.

Affected Districts: 

The most affected districts include Shivamogga (74.5 sq. km loss), Belagavi (24.9 sq. km loss), Mysuru (15.2 sq. km loss), and Chamarajanagar (3.3 sq. km loss).

Causes:

 The primary reasons for forest loss are rampant encroachment, settlements under the Forest Rights Act, and various state government projects. Government Projects: Projects such as pumped storage projects, highway widening, and mini-hydel units have contributed to the destruction of forest cover.