Implementing Agency: Forest Department, Mysore Urban Division

A denuded hill, piligrim centre, and an area of belonging, crying for restoration.

The project addressed improving soil humus along with people’s stake-holding support. Afforestation with pitcher irrigation complimented with check-dams, gully-checks, vegetative barriers and tank restoration went hand-in-hand along with fire protection and supply of fuel wood to the local residents. Measures such as chain-link fencing the entire hillock were taken up to prevent cattle aggression. The result can be seen in the improved bio-diversity, enhanced verdure and increased human inflow.

Located to the south east of the historical city of Mysore, Chamundi Hills is a 1043 meter hillock which is one of the most important tourist destinations in India. This hill takes its name from the Goddess Kali or Chamundi who killed the demon Mahishasura and is worshipped in a temple on the summit. A landmark for many miles around, this hill has a prominent influence on the ecology of the area and plays a vital role in the micro climate of the Mysore urban area. The hills are also an important environmental resource and serve as the watershed for over 10 tanks as well as a vast variety of life forms.

Serious biotic interference and degradation of the natural resources over the years along with an increased pressure on the lands has reduced the once rich lifeline of the city to a barren degraded hill.

In an effort to address the serious problem facing the area, and to restore the glory of the Chamundi Hills, the Integrated Ecological and Environmental Development project was initiated by the Karnataka State Forest Department with assistance from the Norwegian government. The project was undertaken for a period of three years with a total support of Rs.45.40 million.