Forum Launches Signature Campaign Against Yettinahole Project

Forum Launches Signature Campaign Against Yettinahole Project

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Aug. 2, 2026: The Western Ghats–Netravathi Conservation and Research Forum has launched a mass signature campaign opposing the Yettinahole Integrated Drinking Water Supply Project, alleging that it poses a serious threat to the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats.

Addressing reporters at the Mangaluru Press Club on Saturday, forum representative Aditya said the campaign aims to create awareness, particularly among the youth, about the environmental impact of the project. He noted that many young people are unaware of the Yettinahole project and its implications.

Citing a report by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Aditya claimed that the project’s estimated water yield would be insufficient to meet the drinking water requirements of drought-prone regions, despite the government continuing with its implementation.

He said the Netravathi River, considered the lifeline of the Tulu region for over 3,000 years, is facing growing ecological pressure due to projects such as the Netravathi River Diversion Project and the Yettinahole Integrated Drinking Water Supply Project. Despite scientific studies highlighting potential environmental concerns, work on these projects has continued for the past 14 years, causing damage to the fragile Western Ghats ecosystem and involving substantial public expenditure, he alleged.

The forum said the campaign seeks to educate and mobilise citizens to strengthen conservation efforts, warning that continued degradation of the Netravathi River and the Western Ghats could threaten biodiversity, water security and long-term ecological sustainability.

As part of the campaign, the collected signatures will be sent in a memorandum to Members of Parliament from Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Hassan, Chikkamagaluru, Kodagu, Shivamogga, Uttara Kannada, Belagavi, Chamarajanagar and Mysuru on August 15, urging them to take steps to protect the Netravathi River and the Western Ghats.