Government Criticizes Kerala Over Ecological Neglect

The Indian government is attributing recent landslides in Kerala's Wayanad district to the state's neglect of environmental regulations, particularly illegal habitation and mining in ecologically sensitive areas. Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav criticized Kerala for allowing such activities without considering the region's ecological fragility. Meanwhile, the Centre is moving towards a phased designation of Ecologically Sensitive Areas (ESA) in the Western Ghats, with substantial tracts in Kerala, Karnataka, and other states. Karnataka has shown reluctance to adopt the Kasturirangan committee's recommendations, with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Forest Minister B. Eshwar Khandre advocating for state-level consultations before any decision. Despite political resistance, environmentalists are pushing for the implementation of the report to protect the Western Ghats' biodiversity. The Karnataka government is also addressing the recent flood damage, promising relief and reconstruction efforts for affected residents.