The Forest Department has asked for a fresh survey and assessment based on satellite imagery of the extent of forest encroachment and destruction due to mining activities across Karnataka.
Four teams of higher officials from Forests, Ecology, Mines, Revenue, and Police departments are to be set up, and the current status of the land will be juxtaposed with the satellite images of 10 years to see the extent of the encroachment and destruction of forests due to mining activities, said a recent note from Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre to the Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Forests, Ecology and Environment.
While adequate police protection and security to the teams have been sought, the report is to be submitted in one month’s time.
