Environmental Alarms: Dr Hegde's Diagnosis of Malnad Landslides

Environmental expert Dr Kalkuli Vittal Hegde attributes recent landslides in Shiroor and Wayanad to unscientific development and climate change. He warns that irresponsible use of fossil fuels and poor construction practices have compromised the structural integrity of hills. Hegde's research highlights increasing ecological dangers in the Western Ghats region.

Dr Kalkuli Vittal Hegde, an environmentalist and author, has condemned unscientific development methods for recent landslides in Karnataka's Malnad areas. Speaking at a press conference, he linked these disasters to extensive fossil fuel use and ecological neglect.

Hegde highlighted that topsoil erosion and erratic rainfall patterns, exacerbated by irresponsible development models, have severely affected the Western Ghats. He presented alarming statistics on rain from 1895 to 2020, articulating his concerns over increasing landslides and unseasonal weather phenomena.

The noted environmentalist criticized urban lifestyles for contributing to these ecological imbalances, urging immediate attention to global warming indicators. Hegde's study on this issue earned him a D.Litt honor from Kannada University, Hampi.

(With inputs from agencies.)