Opinion - Letters to the Editor   

On rainforests

The editorial "Rainforests should be forever" (June 20) is one of the best I have read on the subject. It sounds a timely warning against tampering with the fragile ecosystems of the Western Ghats.

The Hindu 's concern over the proposed Athirapilly hydroelectric project is shared by all those who are worried about the desecration and mindless destruction of priceless forests and river systems. Ill-conceived projects, which end up enriching a few and impoverishing millions, must be opposed by all, and not just by a few activists or environmentalists.

Shekar Dattatri,
Chennai

The editorial is a strong indictment of the destructive policies being pursued by the Kerala State Electricity Board in the name of development.

The Athirapilly project is the single biggest assault on the Western Ghats since the ill-conceived Silent Valley Project.

The Western Ghats, particularly the Athirapilly hill ranges, with their rich flora and fauna have evolved over millions of years. All talk of compensatory afforestation programme by the KSEB is mere hogwash.

Geeta Krishnan,
Ernakulam, Kerala

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