Center asks Karnataka for Bhandura conservation plan

The Union environment ministry has requested Karnataka to create a biodiversity conservation plan for the Bhandura nullah water project area, impacting 28 hectares of forest land. The Regional Empowered Committee (REC) acknowledged the project site is outside the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary and its eco-sensitive zone. However, the REC noted the area is still a habitat for endangered species, necessitating the conservation plan. The REC will inspect the site in late May and also seeks comments from Karnataka's chief wildlife warden on the project's potential wildlife impact. Goa opposes the project, citing its impact on the Mhadei river tributaries.