Netravati Riverfront Project

Context

Recently, the principal bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in New Delhi has initiated action on the Netravati Waterfront Promenade Development Project in Mangalore. 

Netravati Riverfront Project: NGT takes Cognisance of CRZ & Environmental Norm Violation Allegations

• Action Taken: Recognising the seriousness of the environmental and social issues associated with the project, NGT has taken suo motu cognisance and directed the formation of a joint committee to submit a detailed report on the project.
• Background: The local chapter of the National Environmental Conservation Foundation (NECF) had raised concerns regarding the project’s impact on the lives of common people in the area.
• Criticism: The project has faced criticism for its potential adverse effects on the environment and the livelihoods of local communities.

About Netravati River

• Origin: It originates in the Western Ghats in the Bangrabalike forest Valley of Yellaner Ghats of the Kudremukh range in Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka. 
• Course: It merges with the Kumaradhara River, a left-bank tributary, at Uppinangadi before flowing to the Arabian Sea.
  • • Kumaradhara River originates in Western Ghats in the Subramanya range near Uppinangadi village.
  • Along its course, the Netravati also flows through the popular pilgrim place called Dharmasthala.
• Importance: Netravati river is the main source of water to Bantwal and Mangalore.

About Promenade Development Under Netravati Waterfront Development Project

• Aim: To connect the city to the river and the sea with the help of proposed landmarks and nodes, which are further connected to the city through a series of road networks that will act as connectors between the city and the promenade.
• A Proposal for Re-engagement: It is proposed to re-engage the city with the varied water-related experiences.
  • The project intends to develop the waterfront as an active recreational and commercial area with waterfront gardens, parks, pedestrian-friendly walkways, bicycle track, boardwalks, nature parks, adventure sports etc. 
  • The overall vision also aims to create a working waterfront by modernizing the existing fishing harbour and retrofitting the old port area with tourism activities.