‘550 trees, 39 bird species inhabiting the area’: MGP highlights ecological impact of stadium project

Mysuru Grahakara Parishat (MGP) has written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah urging him to reconsider the decision to construct a sports stadium on the land of Karnataka Silk Industries Corporation’s (KSIC) filature factory in T. Narasipura.

In a letter, MGP founder-working president Bhamy V. Shenoy and working president S.K. Dinesh expressed concern over the proposal, stating that the issue has drawn considerable public attention, with protests being staged by various NGOs, environmental activists, and Opposition leaders.

While reiterating support for the development of sports infrastructure, MGP questioned the suitability of the selected site.

Dr. Shenoy and Mr. Dinesh said the organisation’s primary objection is the alleged failure to conduct a full-fledged Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). They pointed out that as per prevailing norms, projects with investments exceeding ₹20 crore generally require an EIA, with more comprehensive studies mandated for projects above ₹50–100 crore. Though media reports estimate the stadium cost between ₹6 crore and ₹12 crore, MGP argued that the environmental and social costs have not been factored into the calculation.

Citing a biodiversity survey conducted by environmentalists, the letter stated that 39 species of birds are inhabiting the area, including bar-headed geese, Indian golden orioles, black drongos, and Indian grey hornbills, among others. The survey also documented approximately 550 trees on the land, including teak, sandalwood, peepal, neem, banyan, tamarind, coconut, and arecanut trees, some of which are estimated to be nearly 100 years old.

The letter also cited a 1979 study by Prof. T.M. Das on the ecological value of fully grown trees and a 2021 Supreme Court-appointed expert committee that valued a 100-year-old tree at around ₹1 crore, considering oxygen production and bio-fertiliser benefits alone.

MGP further argued that public consultation should be undertaken in the spirit of the 73rd Constitutional Amendment before proceeding with a project that affects local ecology.

Although KSIC’s operations may not be immediately affected, the MGP raised safety concerns about large gatherings near the factory’s industrial boilers if a stadium is constructed. It also warned that reduction in green cover could affect air quality and increase pollution levels, potentially affecting the functioning of the factory.

Describing KSIC as a heritage institution established in 1912 under Nalvadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar and a symbol of Karnataka’s rich silk legacy, including its GI-tagged Mysore Silk sarees, MGP cautioned that development should not undermine such heritage assets.

The letter also noted that Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar, Mysuru MP, has urged the government to drop the stadium proposal.

Considering the concerns, Dr. Shenoy and Mr. Dinesh appealed to the Chief Minister to reconsider the proposal and identify an alternative site that would minimise ecological damage while promoting sports development.