Speaking after inaugurating the ‘Karavali-Pilikula’ expo organised by the Pilikula Nisargadhama Society (PNS) at the Karavali Utsav Grounds here on Tuesday, Palemar said that there are five mega industries in Mangalore including BASF, MRPL, MCF and KIOCL, which pollute the region severely. “It is unfortunate that Mangalore region has been ranked first, out of 60 regions in the State, with a high pollution rate, as per the survey report prepared by the Central Pollution Control Board. While Bangalore has about 3,000 mega industries, Mangalore has only five such units. However, Mangalore region is on top of the list of highly polluted regions in the State,” Palemar informed.
“I have directed my department officials to conduct a deep study to find out as to which mega industry pollutes the region more. Once the companies are identified, the department will take stern action to stop the operation of such companies,” he asserted. “It is the time to think whether we need such highly polluting industries in our region,” he added.
Herbarium at Pilikula
Palemar said that a herbarium will be set up at the Pilikula Nisargadhama at an estimated cost of Rs 2.5 crore. Several endangered species of plants are being vanished from Western Ghats and other regions. The herbarium will give emphasis to preserve such endangered species, Palemar said.
Speaking on the occasion, PNS Executive Director J R Lobo said that the income earned through the expo will be utilised for the development of artisan village at Pilikula. He said that the exhibition ground has been made completely dust-free, so that those who have dust allergy can also enjoy the expo without concern. The expo will be open for public till the end of February. MCC Mayor M Shanker Bhat former Mayor Ganesh Hosabettu were present.
DH News Service