Forest Minister says 'no' to hydel projects posing threat to environment

August 1, 2013

Mangalore, Aug 1: In a positive remark, Minister for Forests, Environment and Ecology B Ramanath Rai on Thursday said that no hydel project would be allowed to come up in the state, if it would cause adverse effects or harm to the environment.

Speaking to mediapersons about the proposed thermal power plant at Niddodi, he said that the pros and cons of the project had to be discussed and debated upon. “I have spoken to the Chief Minister of Karnataka about refusal of any projects that may pose threat to the environment. The proposal to the Niddodi project was made in 2006, and only if no harm is ensured to the environment will the project be allowed to take off,” he said.

He said that permission would be required at three different levels to obtain a green signal for the project.

Relief to evicted families

Mr Rai said that tribals and forest dwellers possessing over ten acres of land in reserve forest areas for three generations would be provided with all basic facilities under Forest Conservation Act if they had to be evicted. A sum of Rs 35 crore has been allotted for this purpose in the state budget, he said.

Netravathi diversion project

Responding to a query on the Yettinahole project, he said that a comprehensive and detailed scientific study should be made before taking any decision on the proposed river diversion project.

He also said that conservation of forests was of utmost importance.

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Warning! Cancer-causing chemicals found in bakery products, especially cakes in Karnataka

News Network

October 3,2024

Bengaluru: The Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department has issued an urgent warning following the discovery of potentially cancer-causing chemicals in cakes sold by certain bakeries across the state.

Recent tests conducted by the department revealed that some cake samples, particularly those with vibrant colors, contain harmful synthetic coloring agents such as Allura Red, a substance known to pose health risks. The findings have raised concerns about the use of artificial colors in bakery products, especially given their potential link to cancer and other serious health conditions.

"We routinely test various food products, and this time, our officials noticed unusually dark-colored cakes on the market," said Srinivas K, Commissioner of Food Safety for Karnataka. "Upon testing, we found that a few cakes contained Allura Red, a synthetic dye associated with health risks."

The use of artificial colors, especially in popular cakes like red velvet and pineapple varieties, is widespread as it attracts customers, particularly children. However, many bakers prefer using natural, safer alternatives, while some opt for synthetic dyes to enhance the cake's visual appeal.

"Most bakeries use permissible, natural colors that are safe for consumption. Unfortunately, a few are resorting to synthetic dyes just to make their cakes more attractive," said a bakery owner from Electronic City, speaking anonymously.

Medical experts are warning that consuming synthetic colors can lead to numerous health issues, including asthma and allergic reactions.

"Some of these artificial dyes are carcinogenic, and prolonged exposure could have serious consequences, especially for children and young adults," cautioned Dr. Vandana G, a private medical practitioner.

While the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) confirms that only a limited number of samples tested positive for harmful colors, legal action is being taken against the violators.

"There is no need for widespread panic or halting production. We are closely monitoring the situation, and only a few bakeries were found to be non-compliant. Rest assured, appropriate legal measures are underway," assured an FSSAI official.

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