Ban on food joints near lakes mooted

Ban on food joints near lakes mooted
DH News Service, Bangalore:
The Forest Department has recommended a ban on tourism activities including setting up of food joints near Hebbal, Nagavara and Agaram lakes.


The Department, which had been directed to submit the recent report by the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests after his visit to these places on June 17, 2008 has submitted its guidelines to implement and maintain the lakes. This was submitted before the High Court on Wednesday. Accordingly, the guidelines suggest that the acquatic habitat and vegetation of these places which is either a stopgap or roosting place for the water fowls, should not be disturbed.

The department, in its report, has warned against the cutting of the shorelines saying it is significant for the sustainence of the bird life. The report has also said that the food courts, which invite the scavenging birds, will affect the visiting migratory aquatic birds and should be a part of the development of these waterbodies.

The report also suggests a group of bird watchers and naturalists be attached with each lake and protection of islands amidst the lakes for the safety of the birds and wildlife. The matter has been adjourned.