Bangalore :

Magsaysay awardee Dr Rajendra Singh on Saturday said Karnataka needs a river rejuvenation policy.

Speaking at a seminar on ‘Protection of Kodagu’s Ecosystem to save River Cauvery’ organized by the Save Cauvery Forum, Singh, who is also known as the ‘Waterman of India’, said efforts should be made to evolve a consensus on the issue.

Singh emphasized that no change of title with regard to river land should be allowed. “Sand extraction should not be allowed in river base areas, and most importantly, sewers should be separated from rivers and treated water also kept away from rivers.”

Col CP Muthanna of Coorg Wildlife Society said the rural landscape of eco-sensitive Kodagu district has to be maintained. “The proposed Mysore-Kozhikode 400 kV power line should be taken through an alternate route as it will save 50,000 trees. There should be a moratorium on fresh licenses for tourist resorts. Strict regulations have to be imposed on land conversion and expansion of townships,” he said.

source: http://www.articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com / The Times of India / Home> India> Kodagu / TNN / January 26th, 2014