The Economic Times

Western Ghats: Karnataka CM moots ground survey, plot-level mapping to counter Kasturirangan draft

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has proposed drone-based LiDAR and plot-level mapping of the Western Ghats to distinguish forests from farmland as the state opposes the latest Kasturirangan draft on eco-sensitive areas. The proposal came during a three-day special Assembly session, with Karnataka required to submit its objections to the Centre by September 27. The July 27 draft proposes ESA status for 20,668 sq km across 10 Karnataka districts.