Kerala Government's Controversial Approvals Highlighted Amidst Wayanad Disaster

The Kerala government has been criticized for approving various projects in Wayanad without thorough studies of the region's topography and geomorphology. Environmental clearance for projects, uncontrolled construction, and expansion of human habitats have exacerbated natural disasters, with the recent landslide in Wayanad causing over 300 deaths.

The Kerala government has come under scrutiny for its approval of numerous projects in Wayanad over the past four years, including non-coal mining initiatives, allegedly without conducting comprehensive studies of the district's topography and geomorphology. Sources at the Environment Ministry revealed that several projects, including the Hill Highway and optical fibre installations, were greenlit despite these oversights.

According to an assessed document, the state government has granted multiple environmental clearances in Wayanad without fully considering the region's soil topography, rock conditions, and overall geomorphology. Experts suggest that this lack of due diligence has made the area more vulnerable to natural disasters, compounded by large-scale urbanisation and tourism activities.

Significant projects approved include 4G/5G coverage by Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited as of March 2023 and a twin tunnel construction to enhance connectivity between Kozhikode and Wayanad districts. However, only Stage-I approval has been granted for the latter. Additionally, multiple optical fibre cable projects received clearance in late 2022. The Hill Highway's various segments in Kannur and Wayanad have also been approved alongside numerous granite building stone quarries from 2023 to 2024.

The Centre issued a notification on July 31 declaring parts of the Western Ghats, including Wayanad, as an Ecologically Sensitive Area. This came a day after a landslide claimed over 300 lives in Wayanad. Union Environment Minister Bhupendra Yadav attributed the recent catastrophe to uncontrolled construction, illegal mining, and habitat expansion, stressing the need for local stakeholder consultations and better regulatory oversight.

Scientists link the disaster to forest cover loss, mining in fragile landscapes, and climate change, underscoring the urgent need for a balanced approach to development and environmental conservation. A panel headed by former Director General of Forests, Sanjay Kumar, continues to seek effective solutions in collaboration with state authorities.

(With inputs from agencies.)