Man-animal conflict around Bandipur national park a fallout of illegal quarrying?

News Network

December 2, 2018

Chamarajanagara, Dec 2: The man-animal conflict around Bandipur National Park, which is inimical to wildlife conservation, is suspected to be a fallout of illegal quarrying close to Eco Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around the national park.

There are more than 150 villages around Bandipur, but the Omkara and Hediyala ranges are among the worst-affected by conflicts as both elephants and tigers tend to stray into human habitats there, resulting in casualties.

While it is common for animals to stray out of their natural habitat looking for food and water, the people of Hasgoli village and Raghavapura village in Begur hobli in Gundlupet Taluk have introduced a new angle to it.

They have alleged that the district administration has issued permission for quarrying and the movement of heavy-duty trucks and blasting were forcing animals out of the forests.

They have also apprised the Deputy Commissioner of Chamarajanagar and Forest Department officials of their apprehensions and stated that the said land in the village was a gomala meant for community use and grazing.

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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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