Upalokayukta orders crackdown on violations by resorts and homestays in eco-sensitive areas in Srirangapatna

Uplokayukta Justice B. Veerappa has directed the authorities to remove illegal constructions and encroachments by resorts and homestays along river Cauvery in Srirangapatna in Mandya district near here.

The Upalokayukta, who recently reviewed the compliance reports submitted by various officials regarding the resorts and homestays within the eco-sensitive zones, has expressed displeasure with the Revenue officials of Pandavapura and Srirangapatna for not discharging their duties to protect public property.

With regard to River Ranch resort in Srirangapatna, the Upalokayukta took note of the renewed encroachment by the owner despite earlier eviction carried out following the High Court order. 

While the officials said a criminal case had been registered against the resort management, the Upalokayukta found fault with the jurisdictional Assistant Commissioner and Tahsildar for their failure to pursue legal steps to vacate stay orders in the regard.

With regard to Chandravana Ashrama, the authority took serious note of the officials for their failure to conduct surveys in certain survey numbers pertaining to the property. 

The officials had assured the Upalokayukta that they will not only complete the surveys and report the violations, if any, but also submitted that they will initiate eviction and demolition proceedings against encroachments in the buffer zone of Bangaradoddi canal and river Cauvery in Srirangapatna taluk.

With regard to Atmaveda and Indraniladatta Pragnya Homestays that are located in eco-sensitive zones, the Upalokayukta appreciated the orders issued by the Deputy Commissioner to cancel the licenses of the homestays after a scrutiny by the District Tourism Development Committee found multiple violations of Government guidelines and other operational norms for homestays.

However, the Upalokayukta emphasised the need for the cancellation of licenses to not merely remain on paper, but implemented in its true spirit. The Assistant Commissioner and Tahsildar submitted before the authority that they will pass the necessary closure orders for the two homestays.

Ranganathittu Bird sanctuary

The authority also took note of the inadequate efforts by the officials to identify commercial establishments operating near Ranganathittu Bird Sanctuary, a protected habitat known across the world for migratory bird populations. 

The officials have assured the Upalokayukta to identify and remove commercial establishments including shops, hotels, resorts, lodges and homestays, operating in the eco-sensitive zone within a month in accordance with the Central Government guidelines.