BBMP to penalise owners of vacant plots which have bushes, brambles

BENGALURU: Following the leopard scare in Kudlu, which was hiding in thick bushes before it was finally caught and shot, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) now plans to penalise owners of vacant sites after issuing notices if there is growth of bushes at those places. The measure is being seen as a precautionary move.

The leopard was found in bushes on a vacant site after three days of operation around an abandoned building. The thick bushes had helped the leopard find shelter. Since there are possibilities of attacks on people, the BBMP has decided to take action against owners who have allowed bushes to grow on their vacant sites.

Palike Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath has instructed the officials in all the eight zones to identify vacant sites with bushes, garbage and huge plant growth and issue a notice and impose a fine of Rs 500 to Rs 1,000. In addition to this, the BBMP forest wing has taken steps to create awareness among the public to be careful with wild animals. People living around forest areas and take some precautions, the officials suggest.

Major issues that are likely to be includes in BBMP notice

1. Those who are living near forest areas should not allow growth of thick vegetation on vacant sites.
2. Bushes should not be allowed to grow on vacant sites.
3. A fine of up to Rs 1,000 may be imposed if garbage is dumped or plants are grown on vacant sites.
4. If citizens find footprints of leopards, tigers, any wild animals, or any clues about them, they should inform the Forest Department immediately.
5. One should not go around alone in dangerous places.
6. Protective measures should be taken around forest areas.