Chamundi Hill walk to raise alarm over ecological concerns

Chamundi Hill, an iconic landmark of Mysuru and a revered religious centre believed to be the abode of Goddess Chamundeshwari, is also a protected forest area rich in flora, fauna and birdlife. However, environmentalists have raised serious concerns that the hill is gradually losing both its ecological balance and spiritual sanctity due to unrestrained commercialisation and ‘unscientific’ projects.

The hilltop and its surroundings have seen a rapid increase in unauthorised shops, roadside stalls, vehicular congestion, and plastic waste. Piles of garbage and the absence of cleanliness and tranquillity, which is essential to both a forest ecosystem and a temple precinct, have become evident.

Experts have also cautioned that major construction and infrastructure projects like ‘PRASHAD’ scheme are being undertaken without a scientific assessment of the hill’s carrying capacity.

In view of these concerns, Mysuru-based organisation ‘Parisarakkagi Naavu’ (We for the Environment) has launched a series of initiatives aimed at safeguarding Chamundi hill. The first of these is a peaceful walk, which will be held on Sunday (January 4) to highlight the risks faced by the hill ecosystem.

Several organisations, including the Mysuru Grahakara Parishat, Team Mysuru, PUCL, Belavala Foundation, Youth for Ecological Sustainability, and the Mysuru Cultural Association have extended their support to the awareness event.

Prominent seers to participate

Several prominent personalities are expected to participate, including seers from various mutts such as Sri Shivakumara Swamiji of Nandaveri Mutt (Gadag district), Sri Nijalingananda Swamiji of Nidasosi Mutt (Belagavi district), Sri Basavarajendra Swamiji of Kesavatturu Mutt (Hassan district) and Sri Mallesh Swamiji of Torenuru Mutt (Kodagu district). Others expected to join include former MLA A.T. Ramaswamy, Major General (Retd) Sudheer Vombatkere, Bhamy Shenoy, N.S. Rangaraju, Horeyala Doreswamy, Kalegowda Nagavara and Kripakara, among others.

The walk will commence at 7.30 a.m. on January 4 from the foothills of Chamundi Hill near the Suttur Mutt. Participants will carry placards and ascend the hill via the steps in a silent and peaceful manner. The programme will conclude with a brief public meeting in front of the Subbanna Balika High School, according to a press release.

Fruits will be distributed to participants. Those unable to climb the steps due to health reasons may reach the hilltop by road and join the concluding meeting at the school premises, said Balaga General Secretary Parashurame Gowda.

The organisers have urged the people of Mysuru and all those concerned about the future of Chamundi hill to participate in the walk and support efforts to preserve its religious, and environmental heritage.