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.