Protests Erupt Over Illegal Construction in Chokramudi Hills

Why in the news?

Residents of Bison Valley protest land grabs and illegal construction in Chokramudi Hills, threatening endangered species and risking landslides in the ecologically fragile region.

Protest Against Construction on Ecologically Sensitive Hills:

  • Residents of Bison Valley, at the foothills of Chokramudi in Idukki, Kerala, are protesting against illegal construction activities.
  • The hills are home to endangered species like the Neelakurinji flower and Nilgiri Tahr.
  • A government-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) uncovered widespread land grabbing, allegedly facilitated by Revenue Department officials.

Environmental and Cultural Concerns:

  • Villagers depend on the hills for water, fearing landslides like the ones that devastated Wayanad.
  • Construction activities, including roads and dams, have led to deforestation and destruction of ecologically important areas.
  • The Chokramudi hills hold cultural significance for the Muthuvan tribe, who consider them sacred.

Government and Legal Interventions:

  • The Kerala High Court intervened, directing the district authorities to stop unauthorised constructions.
  • SIT reports revealed illegal land transactions and collusion between encroachers and officials.
  • Environmentalists call for declaring the area a sanctuary to protect it from further damage, emphasising the need for sustainable eco-tourism initiatives.

About the Chokramudi Peak Overview (Munnar, Kerala):

  • Location: Between Bison Valley and Munnar, part of the Anamudi Mountain range in the Eravikulam National Park.
  • Elevation: Stands at nearly 7,200 feet above sea level.
  • Features: Known for its snow-capped ranges, tea plantations, dense forests, and rich biodiversity.
  • Activities: Popular for trekking, hiking, and photography.
  • Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of the Idukki Dam, tea plantations, and surrounding mountains.
  • Flora and Fauna: Home to diverse plant species and wildlife, contributing to its ecological importance.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times