Government withdraws 2003 notification pertaining to encroachment in and around Arkavathy and Kumudavathy catchment areas

In the matter pertaining to the encroachment in and around Arkavathy and Kumudavathy catchment areas, the Government made a submission that they will withdraw the notification and re-look the matter. The notification pertains to the matter that the areas covered within one kilometre of the catchment area shall be used only for agriculture or those activities that are considered in the green category.

While hearing the petition on Monday, Justice L Narayanaswamy lashed out and said that when it comes to land of farmers, Government always keeps an eye on it. But, when it comes to genuine encroachment, there is complete inaction from Government.

The matter in question is the notification issued by State Government under Section 5 of the Environment Protection Act stating that no industrial activities should be held in the catchment area of Arkavathy and Kumudavathy river near TG halli. But some residents have questioned this stating that encroachments have been happening there despite the 2003 Government notification declaring it as ecologically sensitive and prohibiting all the activities, except agriculture.

When the matter came up for hearing on Monday, Additional Advocate General said that on July 24, 2014 Government issued a circular stating that they are withdrawing the notification and need to re-look it.